The Active International Cardiovascular Institute is one of the few centers in the Lower Hudson region to offer a procedure called thoracic endovascular aneurysm repair, or TEVAR. This is a revolutionary procedure that gives our patients less-invasive thoracic endovascular aneurysm repair, with an easier recovery.

An Advanced Procedure, Offered by a Talented Team of Specialists

The TEVAR program is offered under the expertise of doctors Michael Schwartz, chief, division of vascular surgery; Rawn Salenger, cardiothoracic surgeon; and Scott Luchs, interventional radiologist. The combined expertise of these specialists ensures our patients have the best possible results.

The Two Types of Thoracic Aneurysms

Thoracic aneurysms occur in the aorta, which is the largest artery in the body. It carries blood away from the heart to all parts of the body. The portion of the aorta that runs through the chest cavity nearest the heart is called the thoracic aorta, while the portion running through the abdomen is known as the abdominal aorta. When a weakened area of the thoracic or abdominal aorta expands or bulges, it is known as a thoracic aortic aneurysm (TAA) or abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA). Roughly 25 percent of aortic aneurysms occur in the thoracic aorta, while 75 percent occur in the abdominal aorta.

Approximately 15,000 people in the United States suffer a ruptured TAA each year—but only 20 to 30 percent who make it to the hospital survive them. For this reason, it’s critical to detect and treat large aneurysms early, in order to prevent a deadly rupture.

How the Revolutionary TEVAR Procedure Reinvents Aneurysm Repair

TEVAR is a minimally invasive repair procedure—which means that the surgeon uses only tiny incisions. Because of this, TEVAR is proven to be better tolerated by patients. It’s also lower risk than traditional “open” repairs, where the surgeon makes a large incision. With open repairs, patients can be in the hospital for some time and have to endure a recovery of up to four months. But with TEVAR, patients are in the hospital for only three to four days, and are usually back to enjoying their normal activities in about a week.