Aortic Aneurysm Intervention in Escondido & North County
Aortic Aneurysm Intervention in Escondido & North County
Aortic Aneurysm Intervention in Escondido & North County
The aorta is the body’s largest artery, carrying oxygen-rich blood from the heart to every organ. When a section of the aortic wall weakens and expands, it is known as an aortic aneurysm. Left untreated, an aneurysm can continue to enlarge and eventually rupture, which can be life-threatening.
At North County Vascular & Interventional (NCVI), our board-certified interventional radiologists perform image-guided, outpatient procedures with faster recovery and fewer complications compared to surgery.
Why Choose Aortic Treatment at North County?
Why Choose Aortic Treatment at North County?
Our board-certified interventional radiologists and vascular specialists have performed over 500 aortic interventions. We bring extensive experience in managing both standard and complex aneurysms with advanced, minimally invasive techniques.
Minimally Invasive, Faster Recovery
Endovascular repair uses small incisions and imaging guidance to place a stent graft inside the aorta—minimizing trauma, hospital stay, and recovery time compared to open surgical repair.
Comprehensive Diagnostic & Treatment Approach
We provide full-spectrum care, including diagnostic imaging, surveillance, medical management, and endovascular intervention, ensuring each patient receives a treatment plan tailored to their specific anatomy and risk factors.
Trusted Local Care, National-Level Expertise
With locations in Escondido and Oceanside, NCVI delivers expert vascular care close to home. Patients throughout North County and San Diego trust us for safe, state-of-the-art treatment with compassionate support.
Understanding Aortic Aneurysms
An aortic aneurysm is an abnormal bulging or dilation of the aortic wall. Aneurysms most often occur in the abdominal aorta but may also appear in the chest (thoracic aorta).
Most aortic aneurysms cause no symptoms and are found incidentally during imaging for other reasons. When symptoms do occur, they may include:
- Abdominal, flank, or back pain
- A pulsating sensation near the belly button
- Feeling of fullness or pressure in the abdomen
Risk factors include:
- Smoking
- High blood pressure
- High cholesterol
- Age (over 60)
- Male gender
- White ancestry
- Family history of aneurysms
- Prior vascular disease, trauma, or infection
Aneurysm rupture or dissection (a tear in the aortic wall) can cause massive internal bleeding and is a medical emergency. Early diagnosis, regular surveillance, and appropriate intervention are critical for prevention.
How Treatment Works
When an aortic aneurysm reaches a size or growth rate that increases rupture risk, intervention is recommended. At NCVI, our aortic aneurysm interventions use advanced imaging technology:
- A small incision is made in the groin to access the femoral artery.
- A catheter is guided through the arteries to the aneurysm site under X-ray imaging.
- A stent graft is deployed inside the aorta, sealing off the aneurysm from blood flow and preventing rupture.
This minimally invasive technique strengthens the aortic wall internally, without the need for large abdominal incisions or prolonged recovery times associated with open surgery.
Expected Outcomes and Recovery After Treatment
Excellent Long-Term Results
Treatment effectively prevents aneurysm rupture and significantly reduces the risk of life-threatening complications. Follow-up imaging ensures continued stability of the repair.
Faster, Safer Recovery
Most patients return home within 1–2 days and resume light activities shortly after. Recovery is faster and less painful than traditional open repair.
Reduced Complication
Because our intervention avoids large incisions, patients experience less blood loss, fewer infections, and minimal hospital stay—making it ideal for older or higher-risk individuals.
FAQs About Treatment
How do I know if I have an aortic aneurysm?
Most aneurysms are detected through ultrasound, CT, or MRI scans. If you have risk factors or a family history, your doctor may recommend periodic imaging screenings.
When does an aneurysm need treatment?
Treatment is usually recommended when the aneurysm reaches a certain size (typically ≥5.5 cm in men or ≥5.0 cm in women), grows rapidly, or causes symptoms.
What is the difference between treatment at NCVI and open surgery?
We use a catheter-based approach to place a stent graft inside the artery without major incisions, while open repair requires a large abdominal incision to replace the affected segment. As a result, treatment at NCVI typically has a faster recovery time and fewer complications.
Is treatment covered by insurance?
Yes. Endovascular aneurysm repair is covered by Medicare and most major insurance plans. Our team will help confirm your coverage and coordinate authorizations.
How long does the procedure take?
Most procedures take about 1–2 hours. Patients are typically observed overnight and can go home the next day.
What kind of follow-up is required?
After treatment, periodic imaging (ultrasound or CT) is performed to ensure the stent graft remains in good position and the aneurysm sac continues to shrink.
Take the First Step Toward Relief
At North County Vascular & Interventional Specialists, we believe no patient should have to choose between their health and their quality of life.
