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November 21, 2009
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Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm

Medical Revising Authors: Benjamin C. Wedro, MD, FAAEM and Dennis Lee, MD
Medical Revising Editor: William C. Shiel, Jr, MD, FACP, FACR

What is an aneurysm?

An aneurysm is an area of a localized widening (dilation) of a blood vessel. (The word "aneurysm" is borrowed from the Greek "aneurysma" meaning "a widening").

What is an aortic aneurysm?

An aortic aneurysm involves the aorta, one of the large arteries through which blood passes from the heart to the rest of the body. The aorta bulges at the site of the aneurysm like a weak spot on an old worn tire.

What are the thoracic and abdominal aorta?

The aorta is first called the thoracic aorta as it leaves the heart, ascends, arches, and descends through the chest until it reaches the diaphragm (the partition between the thorax and abdomen). The aorta is then called the abdominal aorta after it has passed the diaphragm and continues down the abdomen. The abdominal aorta ends where it splits to form the two iliac arteries that go to the legs.

Where do aortic aneurysms tend to develop?

Aortic aneurysms can develop anywhere along the length of the aorta. The majority, however, are located along the abdominal aorta. Most (about 90%) of abdominal aneurysms are located below the level of the renal arteries, the vessels that leave the aorta to go to the kidneys. About two-thirds of abdominal aneurysms are not limited to just the aorta but extend from the aorta into one or both of the iliac arteries.

What shape are most aortic aneurysms?

Most aortic aneurysms are fusiform. They are shaped like a spindle ("fusus" means spindle in Latin) with widening all around the circumference of the aorta. (Saccular aneurysms just involve a portion of the aortic wall with a localized out pocketing).

What's inside an aortic aneurysm?

The inside walls of aneurysms are often lined with a laminated blood clot that is layered like a piece of plywood.



Next: Who is most likely to have an abdominal aortic aneurysm? »

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Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm

1) What Is Cholesterol?

Cholesterol is a waxy, fat-like substance that occurs naturally in all parts of the body and is made by the liver. Cholesterol also is present in foods we eat. People need cholesterol for the body to function normally. Cholesterol is present in the cell walls or membranes everywhere in the body, including the brain, nerves, muscles, skin, liver, intestines, and heart.

2) Why Should I Be Concerned About Cholesterol?

Too much cholesterol in your body means that you have an increased risk of getting cardiovascular diseases such as heart disease. If you have too much cholesterol in your body, the cholesterol can build up on the walls of the arteries that carry blood to your heart. This buildup, which occurs over time, causes less blood and oxygen to get to your heart. This can cause chest pain and heart attacks.

3) What's the Difference between "Good" and "Bad" Cholesterol?

...

Read the High Cholesterol: Frequently Asked Questions article »










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