An aneurysm is a weakness in the wall of a vessel that can cause a large bulging area. In an aortic aneurysm this bulge is in the aorta which is the main vessel that takes oxygenated blood to the body. Surgery can be performed to stop the aneurysm bursting.

The procedure involves opening the chest allowing the part of the aorta with the aneurysm to be removed and replaced with an artificial graft. An alternative procedure leaves the chest closed and an artificial tube (stent) is inserted so the blood flows through the stent and bypasses the aneurysm. This procedure involves small incisions usually in the groin  / thigh area.