An aneurysm is an abnormal weakening and ballooning of an artery wall. The most common type is an aortic aneurysm, which can occur in the abdomen (abdominal aortic aneurysm – AAA) or chest (thoracic aortic aneurysm). Aneurysms can also affect other arteries, including those in the legs, pelvis, or arms.

Many aneurysms develop slowly and cause no symptoms until they become larger causing it to rupture, making early diagnosis and specialist assessment essential.

Advances in vascular surgery now allow many aneurysms to be treated using minimally invasive endovascular techniques, avoiding the need for open surgery. One of the most common approaches is Endovascular Aneurysm Repair (EVAR), where a stent‑graft is inserted through small incisions in the groin and positioned inside the artery to reinforce the weakened area and prevent rupture.

Endovascular treatments typically offer smaller incisions, reduced recovery time, and lower surgical risk for suitable patients.

Dr Galappaththy, vascular surgeon servicing Far North Queensland, has extensive experience in endovascular minimally invasive interventions for aortic and peripheral artery aneurysms, providing contemporary, evidence‑based vascular care for patients across North Queensland.