Abdominal aortic aneurysm

Alternative Names

Treatment

If the aneurysm is small and there are no symptoms (for example, if it was discovered during a routine physical), your doctor may recommend periodic evaluation. This usually includes a yearly ultrasound, to see if the aneurysm is getting bigger.

Aneurysms that cause symptoms usually require surgery to prevent complications.

Surgery is recommended for patients with aneurysms bigger than 5.5 cm in diameter and aneurysms that rapidly increase in size. The goal is to perform surgery before complications or symptoms develop.

There are two approaches to surgery. In a traditional (open) repair, a large cut is made in your abdomen. The abnormal vessel is replaced with a graft made of synthetic material, such as Dacron.

The other approach is called endovascular stent grafting. An endovascular stent graft is a tube made of metal mesh that helps support the artery. Small, hollow tubes called catheters are inserted through arteries in your groin. The stent graft is sent through a catheter, and permanently placed into the artery. Endovascular stent grafting can be done without making a large cut in your abdomen, so you may get well faster. However, not all patients with abdominal aortic aneurysms can have this type of surgery.

Outlook (Prognosis)

The outcome is usually good if an experienced surgeon repairs the aneurysm before it ruptures. However, less than 40% of patients survive a ruptured abdominal aneurysm.

Possible Complications

• Aortic rupture
• Hypovolemic shock
• Arterial embolism
• Kidney failure
• Heart attack
• Stroke
• Aortic dissection

When to Contact a Medical Professional

Go to the emergency room or call 911 if you develop severe abdominal pain or any of the other symptoms of an aneurysm.