I have previously submitted questions via this forum for information about alternative surgery for AAA repair for my father then 84.
I am extremely pleased to report that Dad had surgery this past September at which time they repaired his aneurysms, they actually found a second while repairing the first. The procedure , a stent graft, was very successful. Performed by Dr. Dorros, then located in Milwaukee, but subsequently has moved to the Arizona Heart Institute (? Clinic), was extremely successful. Dad was able to return to his favorite past time (golf) in less than 4 weeks, and after almost 9 months continues to prosper. His follow up tests have been clear with no leaks or problems. Dr. Dorros and his staff have kept close touch with Dad and his local Cardiologist since the surgery.
I have received numerous requests for information from this site, some regarding insurance. My father was insured through Medicare and the AARP supplemental coverage. His total medical expenses for the procedure and hospital exceeded $100,000, however Medicare and AARP paid all but his deductible. Although considered "experimental", it is covered under these programs.
I hope this information is of value to anyone facing a AAA repair. Although the qualification for the surgery was extensive, if qualified in our case it was a very good decision to have the stent procedure performed. Dad was literally sitting in a chair the following morning eating a solid food breakfast, and out of the hospital in 5 days. All this at age 84. His biggest regret is he hasn't been able to shoot his age this year (now 85) but he did shoot an 89 last week!!! Just 3 days before his 85th birthday.
Update 2 Nov 1999
As you may recall my Dad had two AAA stents performed by Dr. Dorros a couple of years ago at which time I submitted a narrative about his remarkable recovery at age 84. Unfortunately Dad was diagnosed this past winter with Pancreatic cancer. Dad fought this as he had his AAA and survived far longer than was thought possible, however he passed away on 9/22.
Dad's AAA post surgery was never an issue. The stents allowed him two years he never would have had, and those two years were a true gift to all of his friends and family.