Abdominal aortic aneurysm (enlarged major blood vessel)

Description

Abdominal aortic aneurysm, or the enlargement of the abdominal aorta, is a weakened area of the abdominal aorta that bulges.Weakened part of abdominal aorta that is being extended. Abdominal aorta is large artery in abdomen which delivers blood through abdomen to legs. This weakened part may continue to extend, to stratify and to make thinner its wall or to burst. Aneurysm bursting is life threatenig; it is causing sudden loss of blood and if not treated, leads to death. Disection of aorta is separation of layers of aorta’s wall that can block blood vessels in abdominal organs and legs.

Symptoms

Abdominal pain, pain in back, vomiting, weakness, dizziness, death. Some patients do not have symptoms, especially if the aneurysm is small.

Overview

History of disease is being taken and physical examination is being done.

Tests

Complete blood count (CBC), biochemical blood analysis, troponin, electrocardiogram (EKG), ultrasound, CT scan.

Specialists

Cardiovascular Surgery, General Surgery and Vascular Surgery

Therapy

Abdominal aortic aneurysm can be treated with surgery or with endovascular repair (stent). Some aneurysm, usually smaller than 5cm, can just be regularly followed.