Usually, an endoleak doesn’t cause any symptoms that you’ll notice. Endoleaks are discovered through imaging tests on the day of your procedure and at follow-up appointments. This is why monitoring is so important. An endoleak that leads to an aneurysm rupture is a medical emergency. Call 911 if you have the following symptoms of an aneurysm rupture:
Endoleaks are diagnosed through imaging tests. These tests happen during and after your endovascular aneurysm repair procedure. They’re commonly diagnosed on the same day of your procedure or within 30 days. But they can also appear within 12 months or even later. That’s why it’s important to keep all your follow-up appointments.
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Tests used to diagnose endoleaks during and after your procedure include:
These tests show if your procedure was successful and if the stent graft is in place. They also show any leaks around the stent.
You’ll also have imaging tests in the months and years after your procedure. Your healthcare provider will talk with you about these tests and how often you’ll need them. But they’re essential for catching any secondary endoleaks so you can get treatment if needed.
Your medical team will tailor your endoleak treatment to your individual needs. Endoleak management is different from person to person. Your anatomy (like the length of your neck) and the endoleak type and the location all play a role. In general, endoleak treatment involves three main options: observation, endovascular treatment and/or open surgery.
Your healthcare provider may use “watchful waiting” to see if a type 2 endoleak goes away on its own. This can happen if the connecting blood vessels clot off (stop sending blood to the aneurysm sac). But if the endoleak causes the aneurysm sac to get bigger, then you’ll need treatment to prevent a rupture.
Your endovascular surgeon can perform minimally invasive procedures to fix endoleaks. These may include:
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Surgery is usually the last resort if endovascular treatments can’t be used. This is rare.
An endoleak often needs no treatment. If it does need treatment, there are many minimally invasive options. These endovascular procedures show high success rates. Plus, new technologies continue to provide better stent grafts that reduce the risk for endoleaks.
If you have an endoleak, your healthcare provider will discuss your treatment options with you. You’ll need routine follow-up appointments even after the endoleak is gone. It’s important to watch for any future problems with your stent graft so they can be treated right away.
Keep all of your follow-up appointments after your EVAR or TEVAR procedure. Your healthcare provider will let you know how often you need to get imaging tests.
After your EVAR or TEVAR procedure, ask your healthcare provider about the risk for complications. You can also talk about follow-ups and which imaging tests to expect. Some questions might include:
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Endoleaks are a complication from endovascular aneurysm repair procedures. You may not need any treatment. But if you do, your healthcare provider will work with you and discuss your treatment options. It’s normal to have complications after a life-saving procedure like an aneurysm repair. The benefits outweigh the risk of complications. But if you’re feeling tired or overwhelmed, it’s OK. Many people are in the same boat. Talk with your healthcare provider about ways to manage the stress of recovery.
When you come to Cleveland Clinic for aortic disease treatment, you’ll get industry-leading care and support from our heart and vascular specialists.
Last reviewed on 06/06/2022.
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