Keyhole vs Open Surgery for Aortic Aneurysm

This trial is comparing two types of surgery for a swelling in the main blood vessel in your abdomen (called an aortic aneurysm). We want to find out which approach leads to better long-term outcomes for patients.

What Happens If I Take Part?

If you join this trial, you will be randomly assigned to one of two surgical approaches — keyhole surgery or traditional open surgery. Both are well-established treatments. You will have follow-up appointments at 1, 6 and 12 months after your operation, and then once a year. At each visit, the team will check how you are recovering and may arrange a scan.

Am I Eligible?

You may be eligible if you are over 55 and have been diagnosed with an abdominal aortic aneurysm measuring 5.5 cm or more. Your surgeon must consider you fit enough for either type of operation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Your Visits

Your first check will be the day after surgery while you are still in hospital. After you go home, you will come back at 1 month, 6 months and 12 months. After that, you will have one visit each year for 5 years. At each visit, the team will ask how you are feeling, check your wound, and you may have a scan to look at the repair.

Risks and Benefits

Both types of surgery are well-established NHS treatments. Keyhole surgery usually means a shorter hospital stay and faster recovery, but you may need further procedures in future to maintain the repair. Open surgery involves a larger cut and longer recovery, but the repair tends to be very durable. Risks of either surgery include bleeding, infection, and (rarely) damage to nearby organs. By taking part, you will be closely monitored and your results will help future patients.

EVAAR-UK Results Explained — A Summary for Patients