Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm (cont.)
In this Article
What are the complications with an abdominal aortic aneurysm?
Rupture is a feared problem. Rupture of an abdominal aneurysm is a
catastrophe. It is highly lethal and is usually preceded by excruciating pain in
the lower abdomen and back, with tenderness of the aneurysm. Rupture of an
abdominal aneurysm causes profuse bleeding and leads to shock. Death may rapidly
follow. Half of all persons with untreated abdominal aortic aneurysms die of
rupture within five years. Abdominal aortic aneurysms are the 13th leading cause of
death in the U.S.
Peripheral embolization of clot within the aneurysm can occur when a piece of
clot comes loose and travels further out in the arterial system. This clot
fragment can lodge in a smaller artery and block the flow of blood. Infection of
aneurysms can occur from turbulent blood flow from the rough inner surface of
the affected aorta.
How are abdominal aortic aneurysms repaired?
The goal of surgical treatment of abdominal aortic aneurysm is to prevent aneurysm rupture. Traditionally, repair of aortic aneurysms has been surgical. The operation consists of opening the abdomen, finding the aorta and removing (excising) the aneurysm. A synthetic Dacron tube that replaces the removed piece of aorta is sewn into place.
A less invasive procedure for aortic aneurysm is endovascular surgery. This minimally invasive procedure that allows the grafts
(stent) to be guided within the blood vessel itself to the site of the aneurysm without the need to cut open the abdomen. Not all aneurysms can be fixed in this manner and there may not be a long-term benefit to this type of surgery. Though the post-operative course is shorter, there is a need for closer follow-up and testing.
Next: What is done if an abdominal aortic aneurysm
threatens to rupture? »
- Beta Blockers - Learn more about Beta Blockers, a drug that treats angina and other heart rhythm disorders, migraines, high blood pressure, panic attacks, and tremors. Generic and brand names are included in the article.
- CT Scan (Computerized Axial Tomography) - CT Scan (Computerized Axial Tomography, CAT scan) is a procedure that assists in diagnosing tumors, fractures, bony structures, and infections in the organs and tissues of the body.
- Low Blood Pressure - Learn about low blood pressure (hypotension). Low blood pressure is blood pressure below normal and symptoms may include: lightheadedness, dizziness, fainting upon standing (orthostatic hypotension). There are many causes of low blood pressure, and treatment is dependant upon the cause.
Latest Medical News
Digestion RSS