Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm

Dre Sotiria Mastoraki, MD, PhD

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Abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) is a serious vascular pathology characterized by the dilatation of the abdominal aorta, the main artery that transports blood from the heart to the lower limbs and the organs of the abdomen. This dilatation is due to a weakening of the aortic wall, making it vulnerable to rupture, a condition that can be fatal if not detected in time.

Vascular surgeon Sotiria Mastoraki possesses the experience and expertise necessary for the evaluation and management of abdominal aortic aneurysm, offering personalized care to each patient.

Causes and Risk Factors

The development of an abdominal aortic aneurysm can be due to atherosclerosis or hypertension. Factors that can contribute to its appearance are:

  • Smoking: It can weaken the aortic walls, increasing the risk of development and rupture.
  • Age: It appears more frequently in people aged 65 and over.
  • Sex: Men develop abdominal aortic aneurysms much more often than women.
  • Family History: The existence of a family history increases the risk.
  • Other Aneurysms: Presence of an aneurysm in another large vessel (e.g., popliteal artery) increases the risk.

Symptoms

Most abdominal aortic aneurysms develop slowly and often present no symptoms. When they appear, they may include:

  • Pain in the abdomen or back
  • Pulsating sensation in the abdomen
  • Nausea or dizziness

Diagnosis and Treatment

Diagnosis is made through imaging exams, such as abdominal ultrasound, CT, or MRI. Treatment depends on size and growth rate. Small ones are monitored, while larger ones require surgery (open repair or endovascular stent-graft).

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