Aortic Aneurysms: Surgery Risks and Costs for Patients

Aortic aneurysm

My mother is 59 years old.
She had a heart examination in Malaysia, where the doctor said there is a tear in the aorta, and she urgently needs surgery.
The doctors in Malaysia are not very skilled, so my mother plans to come to Taiwan for the operation.
Doctor, may I ask: 1.
Can my mother withstand a 5-hour flight? 2.
What is the success rate of the surgery? 3.
What is the approximate cost of the surgery? She does not have health insurance.

silvana, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2006/03/30

Dr. He Dongjin reply Cardiology

Dear Silvana, your mother is in critical condition.
It is very dangerous for her to fly, with a mortality rate of approximately 20%.
The medical expenses are around 400,000 NTD.
Changhua Hospital is concerned about you.

Reply Date: 2006/03/30

More Info

When considering surgery for an aortic aneurysm, especially in the case of your mother, there are several important factors to take into account, including the risks associated with the surgery, the potential costs, and the overall health condition of the patient.

1. Travel Considerations: Regarding your mother's ability to endure a 5-hour flight, it is crucial to assess her current health status. If she has a significant aortic aneurysm with a crack, flying could pose serious risks, including the potential for the aneurysm to rupture due to changes in cabin pressure or stress. It is generally advised that patients with critical cardiovascular conditions avoid long flights until they have been stabilized or treated. Consulting with her healthcare provider in Malaysia or a specialist in Taiwan before making travel arrangements is essential. They may recommend alternative methods of transport or even immediate surgery in Malaysia if her condition is deemed too risky for travel.

2. Surgery Success Rates: The success rates for aortic aneurysm surgery can vary based on several factors, including the type of surgery (open surgery vs. endovascular repair), the location and size of the aneurysm, and the overall health of the patient. Generally, the success rate for elective surgery is quite high, often exceeding 90%. However, in emergency situations, such as a ruptured aneurysm, the risk of mortality can be significantly higher, sometimes around 20% or more. It is crucial to discuss these statistics with the surgeon who will be performing the procedure, as they can provide more specific information based on your mother's unique case.

3. Surgery Costs: The cost of aortic aneurysm surgery can vary widely depending on the healthcare facility, the complexity of the procedure, and the patient's specific needs. In Taiwan, without health insurance, the cost could range from approximately $30,000 to $100,000 or more, depending on whether the surgery is open or endovascular and the length of the hospital stay. It is advisable to consult with the hospital's billing department to get a detailed estimate of the costs involved, including pre-operative assessments, the surgery itself, and post-operative care.

In addition to these considerations, it is essential to understand the implications of the surgery. Post-operative recovery can vary, but many patients can return to normal activities within a few weeks, although full recovery may take several months. Your mother will likely need to follow up with her healthcare provider regularly to monitor her recovery and manage any potential complications.

Ultimately, the decision to proceed with surgery should be made collaboratively between your mother, her healthcare providers, and possibly her family. It is vital to weigh the risks of surgery against the potential benefits and to ensure that she receives care from experienced professionals who can provide the best possible outcomes.

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