A new treatment is underway for aneurysms called an endoluminal graft (ELG). The ELG is an innovative development in treating abdominal aortic aneurysms and other arterial disease. Click here for animated presentation.
An aneurysm is a ballooning in the arterial wall. Aneurysms can form in the arteries throughout the body, but the most common location is in the abdomen in the major artery (aorta) just below the renal arteries, which supply blood to the kidneys.
The ELG, which is composed of a combination of synthetic graft and metal stents, is inserted nonsurgically through an artery in the groin area and positioned inside the vessel at the site of the arterial problem. X-ray and ultrasound technologies projected on to a television monitor are used to create a map for the physician to locate the aneurysm.
Once the problem area is located, the stent is then expanded to affix the device in place. By lining the inside of the artery with a graft, the ELG establishes normal blood flow, effectively eliminating the diseased area. In treating aneurysms, ELG's are used to restore blood flow and prevent a possible rupture.
The traditional treatment used to remove abdominal aortic aneurysms is a surgical procedure that involves a major incision and a 5-7 day hospitalization. By using the ELG, patients may be released in 48 hours and are usually able to resume normal activities within a week. This new technology is allowing patients to recuperate much faster without the long hospitalization and extensive recovery period.
