Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm:

Everything you need to know

know Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm (AAA) is a serious vascular condition that can progress without apparent symptoms, making early diagnosis and monitoring critical for the prevention of dangerous complications.

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What is an Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm?

The abdominal aorta is the largest artery in the body, carrying blood from the heart to the lower extremities and the abdominal organs. When the aortic wall weakens, it can bulge, forming an aneurysm. If the aneurysm grows excessively, there is a risk of rupture, causing severe internal bleeding and potentially death.

Symptoms to watch out for:

Often, AAA presents no symptoms and is detected incidentally during examinations for other reasons. When symptoms are present, they may include:
• A pulsating sensation in the abdomen
• Pain in the abdomen, lower back, or back
• Sudden dizziness or fainting
The appearance of these symptoms requires immediate medical evaluation.

 

Diagnostic Tests:

  • Abdominal Ultrasound (Triplex): A non-invasive test that detects and measures the aneurysm.
  • CT Angiography (CTA): Provides detailed images for treatment planning.

These tests are painless and critical for early diagnosis.

Treatment Options:

The management of AAA depends on its size and growth rate. There are two primary approaches:

  • Conservative Monitoring: For small aneurysms, with regular check-ups and control of risk factors.
  • Surgical Intervention: Recommended when the aneurysm is larger than 5.5 cm or shows rapid growth. Methods include:
    • Open Surgical Repair: Replacement of the aneurysmal section with a synthetic graft.
    • Endovascular Aneurysm Repair (EVAR): Placement of a stent-graft via a catheter. A less invasive method with faster recovery.

Tips for preventing complications

Prevention and early intervention are vital:

  • Smoking Cessation: Smoking increases the risk of aneurysm development and rupture.
  • Blood Pressure and Cholesterol Control: Maintaining normal levels through diet and medication.
  • Regular Monitoring: Especially for men over 65 or those with a family history of AAA.

Vascular Surgeon Sotiria Mastoraki, specializing in vascular diseases, offers comprehensive care for the diagnosis and treatment of abdominal aortic aneurysms, contributing to the prevention of serious complications and the maintenance of patient health.

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