Aortic Aneurysm Treatment in Vietnam

Aortic aneurysm is a serious vascular condition that can remain silent for years yet become life-threatening if left untreated. With the rapid development of cardiovascular and vascular surgery services, aortic aneurysm treatment in Vietnam has advanced significantly, offering patients access to modern diagnostic tools, minimally invasive endovascular procedures, and experienced specialists at a fraction of the cost seen in many Western countries.

Vietnam is increasingly chosen by international patients who seek timely, high-quality treatment for aortic aneurysms, supported by modern hospitals, skilled vascular surgeons, and comprehensive patient care services.

What Is an Aortic Aneurysm?

An aortic aneurysm is an abnormal enlargement or bulging of the aorta, the largest artery in the body that carries blood from the heart to vital organs. When the aortic wall weakens, it can gradually dilate. If the aneurysm grows too large or ruptures, it can cause severe internal bleeding and sudden death.

Aneurysms are usually classified by their location:

• Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm (AAA): Occurs in the abdominal portion of the aorta and is the most common type.

• Thoracic Aortic Aneurysm (TAA): Occurs in the chest and may involve the ascending, arch, or descending aorta.

Causes and Risk Factors

Aortic aneurysms develop due to a combination of factors that weaken the arterial wall, including:

• Atherosclerosis (plaque buildup)

• Long-standing high blood pressure

• Smoking

• Advanced age (especially men over 60)

• Family history of aneurysm

• Connective tissue disorders (e.g., Marfan syndrome)

• Previous vascular injury or infection

Many patients have no symptoms until the aneurysm becomes large or ruptures, making early detection and monitoring essential.

Symptoms of Aortic Aneurysm

In many cases, an aortic aneurysm causes no noticeable symptoms. When symptoms occur, they may include:

• Persistent abdominal or lower back pain (AAA)

• Chest or upper back pain (TAA)

• A pulsating sensation in the abdomen

• Shortness of breath or difficulty swallowing (thoracic aneurysm)

A ruptured aneurysm is a medical emergency, presenting with sudden severe pain, low blood pressure, and shock.

Diagnosis and Evaluation in Vietnam

Vietnamese hospitals use modern imaging and diagnostic techniques to detect and assess aortic aneurysms, including:

• Ultrasound (commonly for AAA screening)

• CT scan and CT angiography

• MRI and MR angiography

• Conventional angiography in selected cases

These tests help determine the size, location, and growth rate of the aneurysm, which are critical for treatment planning.

When Is Treatment Necessary?

Not all aortic aneurysms require immediate intervention. Treatment decisions depend on:

• Aneurysm size and growth rate

• Location of the aneurysm

• Patient age and overall health

• Presence of symptoms

Small, stable aneurysms may be monitored with regular imaging and risk-factor control. Intervention is generally recommended when the aneurysm reaches a size associated with a high risk of rupture or shows rapid growth.

Treatment Options for Aortic Aneurysm in Vietnam

Vietnam offers both minimally invasive endovascular treatments and traditional open surgical repair, following international vascular surgery guidelines.

Endovascular Aneurysm Repair (EVAR / TEVAR)

EVAR (for abdominal aneurysms) and TEVAR (for thoracic aneurysms) are minimally invasive procedures in which a stent graft is placed inside the aorta through small incisions in the groin.

Advantages:

• No large chest or abdominal incision

• Shorter hospital stay

• Faster recovery

• Lower immediate surgical risk

Typical candidates:

• Patients with suitable vascular anatomy

• Older patients or those with higher surgical risk

• Patients seeking minimally invasive treatment

EVAR and TEVAR are widely performed at major hospitals in Vietnam with modern hybrid operating rooms.

Open Surgical Repair

Open surgery involves replacing the weakened section of the aorta with a synthetic graft through a larger incision.

Advantages:

• Durable long-term results

• Suitable for complex aneurysms not amenable to EVAR

Considerations:

• Longer recovery time

• Higher initial surgical stress

• Typically requires a longer hospital stay

Open repair remains an important option in Vietnam, particularly for younger patients or anatomically complex aneurysms.

Cost of Aortic Aneurysm Treatment in Vietnam

One of the strongest reasons international patients choose Vietnam is the significant cost advantage.

Estimated Treatment Costs (USD)

• EVAR / TEVAR: USD 8,000 – 15,000

• Open surgical repair: USD 7,000 – 14,000

• Preoperative imaging and tests: USD 500 – 1,500

Costs vary depending on aneurysm complexity, type of stent graft, hospital selection, and length of stay. Comparable treatments in Western countries often exceed USD 40,000 – 100,000.

Safety Standards and Medical Quality

Vietnamese vascular surgery centers adhere to strict safety protocols:

• International surgical and endovascular guidelines

• Modern anesthesia and monitoring systems

• Experienced multidisciplinary teams

• Postoperative intensive care units (ICU)

• Infection control and quality assurance programs

Many hospitals operate under international accreditation frameworks or ISO-aligned standards, ensuring patient safety and consistent outcomes.

Advanced endovascular aortic aneurysm treatment using EVAR technology at international-standard hospitals in Vietnam

Public vs Private Hospitals in Vietnam

Public Hospitals

• Highly experienced vascular surgeons

• Lower procedural costs

• High patient volume

Private and International Hospitals

• English-speaking medical teams

• Shorter waiting times

• Personalized care and private rooms

• Dedicated international patient services

International patients often prefer private hospitals for comfort and communication, while still benefiting from competitive pricing.

Recovery and Follow-Up Care

Recovery depends on the treatment approach:

• EVAR / TEVAR: Hospital stay of 3–5 days, return to normal activities within 2–4 weeks

• Open surgery: Hospital stay of 7–14 days, longer recovery period

Follow-up care includes imaging to monitor graft position, blood pressure control, and lifestyle modification. Vietnam offers affordable long-term follow-up and rehabilitation services.

International Patient Experience in Vietnam

Hospitals and medical tourism providers in Vietnam typically assist with:

• Pre-arrival medical record review

• Treatment planning and cost estimates

• Visa support

• Airport pickup and hospital transfers

• Language interpretation

• Post-treatment follow-up coordination

These services help international patients undergo treatment with confidence and minimal stress.

Who Should Consider Aortic Aneurysm Treatment in Vietnam?

Aortic aneurysm treatment in Vietnam is suitable for:

• Patients requiring EVAR, TEVAR, or open repair

• Individuals seeking cost-effective vascular surgery

• Patients medically stable for international travel

• Those looking for shorter waiting times

• Long-term aneurysm surveillance and management cases

Remote consultations are often available before travel to assess suitability.

Future of Aortic Aneurysm Care in Vietnam

Vietnam continues to invest in:

• Advanced endovascular technologies

• Hybrid vascular operating rooms

• Specialist training and international collaboration

• Improved imaging and graft technology

These developments are strengthening Vietnam’s position as a regional center for vascular and aortic disease treatment.

Conclusion

Aortic aneurysm treatment in Vietnam offers a strong combination of modern medical technology, experienced vascular specialists, high safety standards, and affordable costs. With access to both minimally invasive endovascular repair and traditional open surgery, Vietnam provides reliable and effective treatment options for patients with abdominal and thoracic aortic aneurysms.

For international patients seeking timely, high-quality care without the financial burden of treatment in Western countries, Vietnam is an increasingly practical and trusted destination for aortic aneurysm management.