Aortic Aneurysm Treatment in Switzerland

Aortic aneurysm is a condition characterized by internal bleeding caused by a ruptured thrombus, which can lead to shock or even death. The aorta is the main blood vessel that supplies blood to our heart, and it is divided into two parts: the thoracic and abdominal aorta. An aortic aneurysm is a process in which the aorta bulges and expands, which can lead to rupture. Treatment in Switzerland may be the patient's only chance to return to their normal life, as Switzerland is ready to offer innovative treatment methods and highly qualified specialists. CorSwiss cooperates with leading private Swiss clinics. These include: Privatklinik Bethanien, Clinique de Genolier, Clinique Générale and Centres des Eaux-Vives.

Causes of aortic aneurysm

The causes of aortic aneurysm can be both congenital and acquired changes in the vessel wall. The most common cause is atherosclerosis. Here, excess fat is deposited in small cracks in the vessel wall. Over time, this area grows in size and the wall becomes brittle and inflexible. This can lead to a so-called dissecting aneurysm. Blood seeps into the layers of the wall and causes it to bulge, creating a gap between the layers of the wall. In addition, aortic aneurysms can be caused by congenital connective tissue disorders (such as Marfan syndrome).

Diagnosis of aortic aneurysm in Switzerland

To diagnose aortic aneurysm in Switzerland, advanced imaging techniques such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and computed tomography (CT) are used. These methods allow doctors to accurately determine the size of the aneurysm and assess its condition.

Innovative methods of aortic aneurysm diagnostics in Switzerland

In the absence of complications, the symptoms of aortic aneurysm are similar to those of a number of other internal organ diseases. Often, the pathology is a случайная находка during a comprehensive health examination. If an aortic aneurysm is suspected, the following tests are performed in the clinic:

• X-ray

If the pathology is in the thoracic region, contrast esophagography is used and images are taken in three projections. They visualize the displacement of the esophagus and an increase in the shadow of the vascular bundle. If the pathology is in the abdominal region, images are taken in two projections. They can show erosion of the lumbar vertebrae and calcification of the aortic walls.

• Multislice computed tomography

It allows for a comprehensive assessment of the aneurysmal dilatation, its diameter, to detect associated foci of calcification, dissection, hematomas, and thrombotic masses.

• Ultrasound of the aorta and heart

It allows to specify the localization, diameter and extent of the pathology, as well as to analyze the condition of the aortic walls and the functionality of the nearby vessels. Attention is also paid to the aortic valve.

• Aortography

It is used to verify the data on the pathology and to choose the method of its elimination (we are talking about open surgery or endovascular procedure).

The latest methods of aortic aneurysm treatment in Switzerland

In the presence of pathology, observation tactics are acceptable only if the aneurysm has not reached a certain diameter (for example, for the abdominal department - this is 5 cm). A number of other factors are also taken into account. There are no conservative methods of eliminating pathology. The key point in the development of the program and cost of aortic aneurysm treatment in Swiss hospitals is the choice between open and endovascular approaches. According to reviews of the cost of aortic aneurysm treatment in Switzerland, in any case, patients find the costs acceptable in relation to the quality of services.

Are often used instead of open surgery endovascular techniquesA stent - a frame structure that provides reinforcement for thinned or dissected aortic walls - is delivered to the site of the aneurysm using a special catheter through the vascular bed. All manipulations are controlled by visualization methods. When the stent reaches the aneurysm, the wire is released and expands to the desired size. 

Aortic aneurysm: indications for surgical treatment

In most cases, aortic aneurysms occur in older people, as well as with a hereditary predisposition. The occurrence of this disease may be due to the presence of atherosclerosis. In the case of an aneurysm, it is important to know the symptoms of this disease, since it develops in the human body for years and may not manifest itself in any way, but at some point the aorta may rupture. Rupture will cause severe internal bleeding that will be life-threatening to the patient.

The indications for surgical treatment of aortic aneurysm are the dimensions of the dilation, namely, surgery is prescribed when the dilation exceeds 5 cm. Before scheduling the operation, the patient undergoes a detailed examination to identify the risks of performing such surgery and the risk of abdominal aortic aneurysm rupture. The patient's age is also very important in this matter: if a young patient suffers from this condition, surgical treatment will be offered, while surgery is not recommended for elderly individuals; constant monitoring and endovascular therapy are the preferred tactics for them. It is also important to monitor the dynamics of the aneurysm: if it is rapidly increasing, immediate surgery for aortic aneurysm is necessary for the patient. Treatment proceeds through several stages at medical centers in Switzerland.

Surgical Treatment

Endovascular Treatment:

• Endovascular treatment of aortic aneurysm is often used in Switzerland. An alternative option is aortic stenting. Here, using an invasive procedure (without opening the abdominal cavity), a wire mesh (stent) with polyester inside is advanced through the femoral artery to the area of the aneurysm. All manipulations are controlled using visualization methods. When the stent reaches the aneurysm, the metal wire is released and expanded to the required size.
• These methods can also be used to treat some aortic aneurysms in the chest. However, on vessels located close to the heart, open surgery is often required. Sometimes, a thoracic, vascular, or cardiothoracic surgeon simultaneously installs an aortic valve (aortic valve surgery) as the aneurysm has also affected this area.

 Open Surgery:

• In some cases, particularly for large and complex aneurysms, open surgery may be necessary. Swiss surgeons have extensive experience and use advanced technologies for these procedures. During open surgery for an aortic aneurysm, a vascular or thoracic surgeon will replace the affected portion of the aorta with a polyester or Teflon graft. Using an implantation technique, the aneurysmal sac is opened and blood clots are removed. The graft is then sewn in place and the vessel is closed.

Medication Therapy

In addition to surgery, patients with aortic aneurysms in Switzerland may be prescribed certain medications. This may include medications to lower blood pressure, improve blood circulation, and reduce the risk of blood clots.

Rehabilitation and Post-Operative Care

Aortic aneurysm treatment in Switzerland is performed using advanced methods and technologies, ensuring high levels of efficiency and safety. Patients have access to highly qualified specialists and an individualized treatment approach, which contributes to successful outcomes.

After completing treatment in Switzerland, patients receive high-quality rehabilitation and follow-up care. CorSwiss ,in collaboration with Swiss medical institutions, provides comprehensive support, including physiotherapy, psychological support, and lifestyle recommendations.