Anxious About an Aortic Aneurysm, Mr. Andy Decided on Surgery

Mr. Andy from Serpong first had a check-up because of a blockage in his heart. During those tests, he received different news: an aortic aneurysm. Amid his anxiety, he eventually decided to undergo surgery at Heartology. In this video, he shares how an open explanation from the medical team helped him make that decision.

An Unexpected Finding

In early September 2024, Mr. Andy was found to have a blockage in his heart. At the hospital he went to first, he was scheduled for catheterization and the placement of a stent. However, further tests, including echocardiography, an ultrasound of the heart, showed an aortic aneurysm. An aortic aneurysm is a widening of the wall of the aorta, the main artery that carries blood from the heart to the rest of the body.

The diagnosis left him shocked and uneasy. At that point, Mr. Andy had not yet decided to undergo a procedure at that hospital.

An Open and Honest Explanation

On the recommendation of a friend and the doctor who had been treating him, Mr. Andy came to Heartology. He also felt more comfortable being treated in Indonesia rather than having to seek care abroad. Before surgery, he had two consultations with the medical team and underwent several preparatory examinations, including ear, nose, and throat and dental checks.

The operation was led by the Heartology cardiothoracic and vascular surgery team. What stayed with Mr. Andy most was the way the doctor explained the plan. “He explained it clearly, without hiding anything, that everything carries its own risks, but he explained it comprehensively,” he says. To him, that openness was reassuring. “For me it was a huge relief, because it did not give false hope. Because we do have to stay optimistic.”

Surgery and Recovery

Mr. Andy then underwent surgery to treat his aortic aneurysm. He placed his trust in God and believed this was the path given to him. Besides the surgical team, his care also involved a rehabilitation medicine doctor, a clinical nutrition doctor, and an internal medicine doctor. After surgery, the rehabilitation medicine doctor accompanied him during his recovery.

When the video was recorded, Mr. Andy felt grateful for the support of the medical team who cared for him. “I am truly grateful to have been brought together at the right time,” he says. His message for other patients facing a similar decision is to stay optimistic when undergoing medical treatment.

Every aortic aneurysm differs in size, location, and treatment. If you have just received a similar diagnosis, discuss your treatment options with a cardiologist and a cardiothoracic and vascular surgeon.