“I am pleased that I am able to offer my patients state-of-the-art technology and procedures that rival larger cities — right here in Peoria.”
Andy Chiou, MD
The part of the body that lies between the thorax and the pelvis and encloses the stomach, intestines, liver, spleen and pancreas.
A localized widening (dilation) or weakening of an artery, vein, or the heart.
The large trunk artery that carries blood from the left ventricle of the heart to branch arteries.
A hollow flexible tube that, in this case, is inserted through a blood vessel for diagnostic purposes.
Often referred to as a CAT Scan, this cross-sectional scan constructs a three-dimensional image of a structure and is used to aid in internal diagnosis and detection.
A tubular device, which is composed of special fabric supported by a rigid structure, usually metal. The rigid structure is called a stent. Stent grafts are used to support weak points in arteries, called aneurysms.
An Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm (AAA) is an enlargement or weakened bulging area of the aorta (the main artery that caries blood away from the heart). As it enlarges, it can rupture and cause death. Depending on the patient’s general health, the size of the aneurysm and the rate of growth, surgery may be recommended.
The traditional method of repairing an Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm begins with a large incision to the abdomen. However, a newer — yet widely accepted — procedure involves the placement of a stent graft.
Using a small groin incision and possibly a small abdominal incision, catheters loaded with the tube graft are passed through the groin arteries into the abdomen. The stent graft is deployed under X-ray guidance. The tube graft occludes the aneurysm at the top of the normal aorta and at the bottom of the normal aorta.
Following the procedure, the patient may or may not be taken to the intensive care unit (ICU) or a post anesthesia care unit (PACU). Vitals are monitored and you will eventually be transferred to a regular nursing care unit. You will be given pain medication if you have not had an epidural during surgery to alleviate postoperative pain. Gradually you will be encouraged to walk and take in solid food as tolerated. The initial recovery time is usually 2 to 3 days, with patients returning to normal activities within weeks. Long-term follow up with serial CT scans is required.