Preparing for TEVAR with TAMBE: The Questions I’m Asking Before Surgery
Hi, I’m Chris. In about four weeks, I’ll be undergoing TEVAR (Thoracic Endovascular Aortic Repair) using the TAMBE device by Gore Medical. After being diagnosed with a complex thoracic aortic aneurysm, I began making health-focused changes—like managing my blood pressure with medication—and diving into research to understand what lies ahead.
If you’re facing a similar TEVAR procedure, you probably have a lot of questions too. To stay informed and involved in my own care, I created a checklist of the things I want to ask my vascular surgeon. Sharing this list might help others prepare and feel more confident as they approach this major step.
???? TEVAR & TAMBE: Questions to Ask Your Doctor
Before the Procedure
- What steps can I take now to improve the outcome of the surgery?
- Should any of my current medications be paused the night before?
- Is it recommended to take a sedative before surgery?
- How much recovery time will I need before returning to work?
- Can we schedule my follow-up appointment before I leave the hospital?
Understanding the TAMBE Device
- How does the TAMBE stay in place once implanted?
- What safeguards prevent the top intake from collapsing?
- What’s the full deployment diameter of the TAMBE?
- How does that compare to the diameter of my leg artery where it will be inserted?
During the Procedure
- How is blood flow to the legs maintained while the device is being placed?
- Are the catheters built into the TAMBE system?
- Once inside, how are those catheters controlled or adjusted?
- How often does the device twist or become misaligned during deployment?
- Do complications with the branches occur frequently during placement?
Device Orientation and Performance
- What tools or imaging techniques guide the orientation of the TAMBE?
- Is blood flow through each branch adjusted during the procedure?
- How will circulation change after surgery?
- What are the risks of spinal cord damage or paralysis?
Future Planning and Monitoring
- If a second procedure is needed, how long should I wait before adding the lower TAMBE component?
- What’s the expected lifespan of the device?
- Which parts are most likely to wear out or fail over time?
- What kinds of updates or adjustments are typically needed?
- What signs or symptoms should I watch for that might indicate complications?
- Are there specific physical activities I should avoid?
- How often will I need imaging like angiograms or ultrasounds after surgery?
Why I’m Sharing This
As a patient, knowledge helps me feel more in control. Creating this list gave me clarity, and I hope it does the same for you. If you’re preparing for aortic aneurysm repair with the TAMBE device, these questions may guide you through your own conversations with your care team.
I’ll continue to update this post as I learn more from my doctors. If you have questions I didn’t include—or your own experience to share—please leave a comment below.
Wishing you strength and clarity as you move forward,
Chris (Tambelifer)
