Last Feb, after an ultrasound it was discovered that I had an asymptomatic 8.5 cm AAA (abdominal aortic aneurysm) surgical is 5.5 cm. My Doc had felt a pulsing in during a physical in Nov. Waited 14 weeks for an ultrasound, he though it was small and would be followed until 5.5. Surprise!!! Surgery within a week.
Apparently I was a time bomb ready to go and a bit of a walking miracle. No other health issues (64) so open repair was the best option and permanent option. Frustrated going in as I felt so good and after not as good. It was preventative not corrective. So unlike bypass where some one felt better after I wouldn't.
10 months out and my recovery has been good, about 85 % though there are changes that are likely permanent, due to the surgery and my age.
Any one 60 or over should be screened, this is way more prevalent than I ever knew. Since autopsies aren't done routinely the unknown and unexpected sudden death can be often be AAA thoracic or abdominal aneurysm the burst and the victim had no clue of a problem.
Often discovered though xrays or tests unrelated to AAA symptoms. At at annual physical be sure your Doc physically examines you, this likely saved my life.
I am a very lucky fella
Peace