Surgeons recently performed YNHHS’ 100th minimally invasive fenestrated endovascular procedure to treat a dangerous type of aortic aneurysm. Vascular surgeon David Kuwayama, MD, (left) and cardiothoracic surgeon Prashanth Vallabhajosyula, MD, are among the surgeons who perform this life-saving procedure.
Yale New Haven Health recently completed its 100th minimally invasive fenestrated endovascular procedure to treat a dangerous type of aortic aneurysm affecting the chest and abdomen. This marks a milestone in helping patients with life-threatening conditions through a collaboration between vascular and cardiac surgeons.
At Yale New Haven Hospital, surgeons use the advanced procedure to repair large aneurysms in the section of the aorta spanning the chest and abdomen. They deploy an interlocking network of stents to repair the aneurysm, eliminating the need for major surgery. This typically means a shorter hospital stay and faster recovery.
“This procedure helps us treat patients who are at high risk and might not survive traditional surgery,” said vascular surgeon David Kuwayama, MD, director of Aortic Surgery, Section of Vascular Surgery, YNHH Heart and Vascular Center, and associate professor of Surgery, Yale School of Medicine (YSM). “It’s a safer option that can greatly improve their quality of life.”
The aorta is largest artery, carrying blood from the heart to the rest of the body. Sometimes, a section of the aorta can weaken and bulge – called an aneurysm. If it bursts, it can be life-threatening. When the aneurysm affects the part of the aorta that runs through the chest and abdomen (a thoracoabdominal aortic aneurysm), it’s especially challenging to treat because this area supplies blood to vital organs such as the kidneys, liver and intestines.
Benefits of the minimally invasive procedure include:
- Smaller incisions
- Better protection of vital organs
- Lower risk of complications compared to traditional surgery
“This technique significantly improves outcomes for our patients with complex aneurysm disease,” said Prashanth Vallabhajosyula, MD, surgical director of the Aortic Institute, Heart and Vascular Center, and professor of Surgery, YSM. “This advanced procedure is part of our commitment to delivering personalized, high-quality vascular care using the latest technologies and techniques.”
