How Long Does Recovery Take After Endovascular Aneurysm Repair?

EVAR is typically recommended when:

• An aneurysm reaches a size that poses a rupture risk.
  
• A patient is at high risk for open surgery due to age or co-morbidities.
  
• Early intervention is necessary to prevent complications from rapid aneurysm expansion.

Benefits of EVAR Over Open Surgery

Compared to traditional open surgery, EVAR offers several advantages:

• Smaller incisions and reduced tissue trauma
  
• Shorter hospital stay (1 to 2 days on average)
  
• Quicker recovery time and return to routine activities.
  
• Lower risk of complications such as wound infection and respiratory issues
  

These benefits make EVAR the preferred approach for many vascular specialists and patients alike.

Minimally Invasive Approach and Its Impact

One of the key reasons for quicker recovery from aneurysm surgery via EVAR lies in its minimally invasive technique. Since the procedure does not involve a large abdominal incision, there is significantly less pain, blood loss, and risk of complications post-surgery.

What to Expect After Surgery

Patients are generally awake shortly after the procedure and monitored in a post-operative unit or ICU. Most are able to walk within 24 hours, eat light meals, and engage in minimal physical activity. Discharge is typically possible within 48 hours, depending on the patient’s condition and the absence of complications.

Despite the quick turnaround, complete recovery can take a few weeks. Pain at the incision site, fatigue, and mild bruising or swelling near the groin are common in the early days.

Immediate Post-Surgery (First 24–48 Hours)

Patients remain in the hospital under observation. Medical staff monitor vital signs, kidney function, and any potential post-operative bleeding or infection. Imaging, usually a Doppler ultrasound or CT angiogram, is performed to confirm correct graft placement.

Pain is typically mild and managed with oral medications. Patients are encouraged to walk with assistance to prevent blood clots and promote circulation.

Early Recovery Phase (First 2 Weeks)

Most patients return home within two days of the procedure. During the first two weeks:

• Light activities such as walking around the house are encouraged
  
• Lifting heavy objects and strenuous movements are avoided
  
• Pain or discomfort at the groin incision site may persist but gradually decrease.
  

It is important to take prescribed medications, including blood thinners or antiplatelet agents, and monitor for signs of complications like fever, leg swelling, or worsening pain.

Intermediate Recovery Phase (Weeks 2–6)

By this stage, energy levels improve, and most patients are able to resume office work or light physical tasks. However, driving, climbing stairs, or longer periods of standing should be approached with caution.

A follow-up imaging test is usually scheduled during this period to evaluate the condition of the stent graft and ensure there is no leakage around the aneurysm sac (endoleak).

Long-Term Recovery (After 6 Weeks)

Patients generally return to full daily activities, including mild to moderate exercise. Heavy physical labor, however, may still require clearance from the treating physician.

Lifelong surveillance remains essential. Even years after EVAR, patients should undergo regular imaging tests to ensure the graft remains in place and functions correctly. Some may need to undergo smaller interventions to ensure there is no endoleak into the aneurysm sac. 

While EVAR offers a relatively short recovery window compared to open surgery, several factors can influence the actual recovery duration:

Age and Overall Health

Elderly patients or those with multiple comorbidities such as diabetes, high blood pressure, or chronic kidney disease may experience slower recovery and need additional follow-ups.

Pre-existing Vascular Conditions

Patients with other vascular diseases like peripheral artery disease or carotid stenosis may need closer monitoring and coordinated care to manage their overall vascular health during recovery.

Adherence to Medical Advice

Recovery heavily depends on how well patients follow medical instructions. This includes:

• Taking medications as prescribed
  
• Avoiding prohibited activities
  
• Attending follow-up appointments and imaging scans
  

Patients adhering to these guidelines experience fewer complications and faster recovery.

Recovery doesn’t end with the closure of surgical wounds. Long-term success after EVAR depends on how well patients adapt their lifestyle to support vascular health.

Diet and Exercise

A balanced diet rich in fiber, fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and omega-3 fatty acids supports healthy blood vessels. Salt intake should be minimized to manage blood pressure. Patients are encouraged to maintain a healthy weight.

Light aerobic exercises such as walking, cycling, and swimming promote good circulation. However, heavy weight lifting or high-intensity activities should be avoided unless specifically approved by the vascular surgeon.

Regular Medical Checkups

Lifelong surveillance is mandatory after EVAR. Periodic imaging tests—every 6 months to 1 year—are essential to detect:

• Graft migration or leaks
  
• Aneurysm growth or recurrence
  
• Narrowing of blood vessels near the graft
  

Routine blood tests and consultations with your vascular surgeon ensure that systemic factors like cholesterol and blood pressure remain under control.

Preventing Future Aneurysms

While EVAR treats the current aneurysm, it does not eliminate the risk of future aneurysms in other parts of the vascular system. Patients should avoid smoking, manage stress, and control diabetes and cholesterol levels.

Dr. Sumit Kapadia is a leading vascular and endovascular surgeon in India, known for his expertise in complex aneurysm management using the latest technology and evidence-based practices. With years of experience in minimally invasive vascular procedures, Dr. Kapadia ensures:

• Accurate diagnosis using advanced imaging tools
  
• Customized treatment plans based on individual anatomy
  
• Patient-centered post-operative care and follow-up
  
• High success rates and reduced complications

Patients under his care benefit from surgical excellence and long-term vascular health planning.

Recovery from aneurysm surgery, particularly through endovascular techniques like EVAR, has become more manageable and efficient due to minimally invasive methods. While most patients resume routine activities within a few weeks, complete recovery involves more than physical healing—it demands lifelong commitment to vascular health.

By following post-operative guidelines, making essential lifestyle changes, and undergoing regular surveillance, patients can enjoy a full and active life post-EVAR. If you’re seeking expert care for aneurysm treatment recovery, Dr. Sumit Kapadia offers the experience and support you need for a safe and successful journey.