Persistent Abdominal or Back Pain
An abdominal aortic aneurysm may cause deep, steady pain in the abdomen, lower back, or side, especially as it becomes larger. New or ongoing pain should be discussed with a medical professional.
Expert Aortic Aneurysm Treatment in Twin Falls, ID
Aortic Aneurysm Evaluation & Treatment
An aneurysm can grow without causing noticeable symptoms, so finding it early can make a meaningful difference. At The Vascular Surgery Center of Excellence, our board-certified aortic surgeon evaluates and treats abdominal aortic aneurysms, thoracic aortic aneurysms, and aneurysms in other arteries. We offer monitoring, endovascular aortic aneurysm repair (EVAR), and open aortic aneurysm surgery in Twin Falls, ID. Your care plan will reflect the aneurysm’s location and size, how quickly it is changing, your symptoms, and your overall health.
Aortic Aneurysm Signs and Risk Factors
Many aneurysms are found during imaging for another health concern. Some cause no symptoms, while others create warning signs that should be evaluated. Knowing your risk factors can also help you decide when to ask about screening.
Visible or Pulsating Mass
Some people notice a pulsing feeling in the abdomen. This does not confirm an aneurysm, but it should be checked by a qualified medical professional.
Leg Pain or Poor Circulation
An aneurysm behind the knee or in another limb artery may affect blood flow and cause pain, swelling, numbness, a cold foot, or skin color changes. Sudden symptoms require urgent medical attention.
Family History or Risk Factors
Risk may be higher with older age, current or past smoking, high blood pressure, cardiovascular disease, or a family history of aneurysm. National recommendations support one-time abdominal aortic aneurysm screening for men ages 65 to 75 who have ever smoked, with selective screening for some others. Your doctor can help determine whether screening is appropriate for you.
If you have been diagnosed with an aneurysm, have concerning symptoms, or want to understand your risk, a vascular evaluation can help clarify the next step. Call 911 for sudden, severe chest, abdominal, or back pain; fainting; or other symptoms that may signal a medical emergency.
Understanding Abdominal and Thoracic Aneurysms
What is an Aneurysm?
An aneurysm is a weakened area in an artery that widens or bulges. Some stay stable for years, while others grow and may eventually leak, rupture, or affect blood flow. Current aortic disease guidelines emphasize that care should be based on the aneurysm’s location, size, growth, symptoms, and the patient’s overall health.
Common types evaluated by vascular specialists include:
- Abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA), located in the part of the aorta that runs through the abdomen
- Thoracic aortic aneurysm, located in the part of the aorta within the chest
- Popliteal aneurysm, located in an artery behind the knee
- Peripheral artery aneurysm, located in another artery outside the aorta
Not every aneurysm needs immediate repair. Smaller aneurysms may be monitored with scheduled imaging, whereas larger, rapidly growing, or symptomatic aneurysms may require treatment.
What to Expect
Your visit begins with a review of your medical history, symptoms, prior scans, and risk factors. Ultrasound, CT angiography, MRI, or another imaging test may be used to confirm the aneurysm’s size and location. Dr. Elliot Adams, our board-certified aortic surgeon, will explain what the images show and whether monitoring or repair is the safer choice.
Depending on your diagnosis, your plan may include:
- Surveillance with imaging at intervals based on your condition
- Blood-pressure control, smoking cessation, and other medical care to reduce risk
- Endovascular aortic aneurysm repair (EVAR), which places a stent graft through small catheter entry sites
- Open aortic aneurysm repair through a surgical incision when open treatment is the better option
For an abdominal aortic aneurysm, the minimally invasive option is commonly called the EVAR procedure. A related treatment, thoracic endovascular aortic repair (TEVAR), may be used for certain chest aneurysms. The best treatment for abdominal aortic aneurysm depends on anatomy and health, as reflected in the Society for Vascular Surgery’s guidance.
Evidence-Based Care
EVAR often involves a shorter initial recovery than open AAA repair, but it also requires lifelong imaging to check the repair. A randomized U.S. trial found similar long-term survival after endovascular and open repair, while a 15-year U.K. follow-up study highlighted the importance of continued surveillance after EVAR. These findings are why we compare the benefits, risks, and follow-up needs of each option with you before making a recommendation.
Who Should Consider Aortic Aneurysm Screening or Evaluation?
You may benefit from an aneurysm evaluation if you:
- Have been diagnosed with an abdominal, thoracic, or peripheral aneurysm
- Have persistent abdominal, back, chest, or leg symptoms that need evaluation
- Have a close family member with an aortic aneurysm
- Are within a group that may benefit from aortic aneurysm screening
- Have a history of smoking, high blood pressure, or cardiovascular disease
- Need ongoing imaging after a previous diagnosis or aneurysm repair
An evaluation does not automatically mean you will need a procedure. It provides the information needed to decide whether surveillance, medical care, or treatment for an aortic aneurysm is appropriate.
Benefits of Aortic Aneurysm Treatment
When treatment is medically appropriate, potential benefits may include:
- Reducing the risk of rupture or other aneurysm-related complications
- Supporting long-term vascular health
- Choosing between minimally invasive repair and open surgery based on your needs
- Planning treatment before an emergency occurs when possible
- Receiving ongoing monitoring before and after treatment
- Working with a dedicated vascular surgeon who explains your options clearly
Every procedure has risks, and results vary. Dr. Adams will discuss the expected benefits, possible complications, recovery, and follow-up for your specific condition.
Comparing Aortic Aneurysm Repair Options
| Endovascular Aneurysm Repair (EVAR) | Open Aortic Aneurysm Surgery | Surveillance & Medical Care | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Best For | Many abdominal aortic aneurysms with suitable anatomy | Aneurysms better treated through open repair | Smaller or stable aneurysms not yet needing repair |
| Approach | A stent graft is placed through arteries using small catheters | The weakened section is repaired through a surgical incision | Imaging, risk-factor control, and follow-up visits |
| Incisions | Small catheter entry sites | Abdominal or chest surgical incision | None |
| Recovery | Often shorter than open surgery | Longer healing and recovery period | No procedural recovery |
| Hospital Stay | Often shorter; varies by patient | Hospital stay required | Not applicable |
| Primary Goal | Redirect blood flow away from the aneurysm | Repair or replace the weakened section of the artery | Track growth and lower health risks |
| Ongoing Needs | Lifelong imaging is required | Follow-up imaging and medical care | Regular imaging on a schedule set by your doctor |
EVAR and open surgery are both established forms of aortic aneurysm repair. If AAA repair is recommended, the choice depends on the aneurysm’s shape and location, your overall health, the expected durability of the repair, and your ability to complete follow-up imaging.
Why Patients Choose The VSCE for Aneurysm Care
Patients throughout Southern Idaho and surrounding states trust The Vascular Surgery Center of Excellence because we offer:
Specialized Expertise
Focused exclusively on vascular and endovascular care.
Comprehensive Treatment Options
Including minimally invasive procedures and open vascular surgery.
Personalized Care
Tailored to each patient’s unique diagnosis, medical history, and goals.
Evidence-Based Medicine
Guided by the latest advances in vascular surgery and endovascular treatment.
Compassionate Support
From a team that values education, communication, and long-term relationships.
Meet Dr. Elliot Adams, Aortic Aneurysm Specialist
Dr. Elliot Adams, MD, RPVI, is a board-certified vascular surgeon and the founder of The Vascular Surgery Center of Excellence. Serving patients throughout Idaho and surrounding states, he provides personalized care for aortic aneurysms and other complex arterial conditions. His experience with both minimally invasive endovascular procedures and traditional vascular surgery enables him to recommend treatment tailored to each patient’s diagnosis, health, and goals. Dr. Adams places particular emphasis on carefully planning care, protecting circulation, and reducing the risk of serious vascular complications whenever possible. Known for his compassionate, patient-centered approach, he takes the time to explain each diagnosis, answer questions, and ensure patients understand their options before proceeding with treatment.
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Aortic Aneurysm Treatment FAQs
What is an aneurysm?
An aneurysm is a weakened area in an artery that becomes wider or bulges. Many do not cause symptoms. The risk depends on where the aneurysm is located, its size, whether it is growing, and your overall health.
Will every aneurysm require surgery?
No. Many aneurysms can be monitored with regular imaging and medical care. If repair is needed, your doctor will explain whether an EVAR procedure, open aortic aneurysm surgery, or another approach is appropriate. The recommendation is based on the aneurysm and your individual health—not just the aneurysm’s size.
How are aneurysms diagnosed?
Aneurysms may be detected with vascular ultrasound, CT angiography, MRI, or other imaging modalities. These tests show the size and location of the aneurysm and help your specialist plan monitoring or treatment. After an aortic aneurysm repair, imaging is also used to check the repair over time.