It should never happen that the aneurysm is found to be bigger in surgery than what was measured through testing before hand. When I hear that, it tells me that someone did not know how to measure the aorta.
Sometimes, the aneurysm is not found until the chest is opened. That should not happen.
Sometimes, the chest is closed again without even recognizing there is an aneurysmal aorta. That should never happen either.
Diagnostic testing prior to surgery is the best way to evaluate the size of the aorta - not what is seen by the surgeon's eye when the chest is open. But it takes expertise to do the diagnostic testing and assessment accurately.
Unfortunately, these things continue to happen, even though they should not. It is still a very difficult world for those with aortic aneurysms in the chest.
I am glad that Scott has come through this surgery and wish him the very best in his recovery!
Arlyss
