What should be included in the follow-up protocol for patients post-EVAR?

The follow-up protocol for patients after an Endovascular Aneurysm Repair (EVAR) is critical for monitoring the success of the procedure and identifying any complications early. The correct approach involves scheduling follow-up visits every three months, particularly in the first year after the procedure. This frequent follow-up allows healthcare providers to perform imaging studies to assess the integrity of the stent graft, check for any endoleaks, and monitor the size of the aneurysm.

Regular check-ups help to ensure that any issues can be addressed promptly, thereby reducing the risk of serious complications such as graft migration or aneurysm rupture. Following the initial period, the frequency of follow-ups may be adjusted based on the patient's individual risk factors and findings from the imaging studies, but starting with every three months is standard practice.

This structured approach contrasts with options that suggest less frequent follow-ups or only addressing symptomatic changes, which would not provide adequate vigilance post-EVAR. Regular monitoring is essential, particularly in the first year when the likelihood of complications can be higher. Additionally, relying solely on imaging tests without accompanying clinical evaluations would miss other important aspects of patient assessment and overall care.