This is a major operation. It is done under a general anaesthetic. The patient has the abdomen opened, the bowel moved to one side, the aorta clamped an a polyester (plastic) graft sewn into place.

Usually the graft is a simple tube. Sometimes the graft is in a Y shape if the AAA extends into the pelvic (iliac) arteries.

This sort of surgery is major and as such there are major risks associated with the surgery.

Therefore it is most important that the patient, their surgeon and the patients relatives have been involved in understanding if the surgery is necessary and the risks involved - both of operating and not operating.