3 min readNew DelhiOct 5, 2024 02:36 PM IST
First published on: Oct 5, 2024 at 01:26 PM IST
Actor Rajinikanth had been suffering from an aortic aneurysm, which led to his hospitalisation followed by a transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) surgery. According to PTI, Rajini was admitted to the Apollo Hospitals, Chennai, on September 30. He had a swelling in the main blood vessel leaving his heart (Aorta), which was treated by a non-surgical, transcatheter method, the hospital said in a statement. Post his discharge, the Jailer actor took to X to express his gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Amitabh Bachchan for their good wishes.
As he embarks on a recovery journey, indianexpress.com spoke to health experts across the board to figure out more about the non-surgical transcatheter method used to treat aortic aneurysm, and how safe it is compared to regular surgery.
Dr Vimal Someshwar, head of interventional radiology at Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital, Mumbai, said that the procedure involves placing a stent graft across an aneurysm. This prevents blood from entering the dilated portion of the aneurysm while maintaining normal blood flow within the arterial system.
He said that this non-invasive method is much safer than traditional surgery, as it avoids the need to open the abdomen or chest. Instead, the procedure is performed by accessing the femoral arteries in the groin area, considerably reducing the risk of damage to nearby blood vessels, such as those in the kidneys or bowels.
Post-procedure, patients are monitored for 24 hours in the ICU, after which they are shifted into a ward and kept there for a couple of days before discharge. They are called back for a follow-up after seven to 10 days to check if they are experiencing any trouble in the groin region or if the blood flow through the stent graph is alright.
According to him, the aneurysm is a result of weakening of blood vessel walls. Ensuring cholesterol and blood pressure levels are regulated can go a long way in preventing recurrence.
Keep a close watch on blood pressure (Source: Freepik)
What does recovery look like?
Dr Krishna Chaitanya, lead consultant for vascular and endovascular surgery at Aster CMI Hospital, Bangalore, said that recovery time varies depending on individual progress, but patients can usually return to normal activities within two to three weeks. Since the procedure is less invasive, most patients stay in the hospital for only two to three days.
However, he stressed on the importance of following movement restrictions, avoiding physical activity, and refraining from heavy lifting. Scheduled regular follow-up appointments with a vascular surgeon can help keep a watch on the stent graft and its function.
Precautions to note
Dr Chaitanya recommended following a healthy diet that is high in fiber, whole grains, and lean proteins. “Include fresh fruits, vegetables, and healthy fats. Keep a close watch on blood pressure, limit alcohol consumption and tobacco use, as smoking is the single most risk factor for this condition and maintain a healthy weight,” he said. He also suggested managing underlying conditions like high cholesterol and blood pressure to prevent further mishaps.
Scheduled regular follow-up appointments with a vascular surgeon can help keep a watch on the stent graft and its function. (File Photo) 
Keep a close watch on blood pressure (Source: Freepik)
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