What is an Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm?
An Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm (AAA) is a potentially serious condition characterized by the weakening and bulging of the abdominal aorta, the largest blood vessel in the abdomen. Left untreated, it can lead to life-threatening complications, making early detection and timely treatment crucial.
What are Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm symptoms?
Abdominal Aneurysms often develop silently without causing noticeable symptoms, which is why routine screenings are essential, especially for individuals at risk. However, in some cases, patients may experience the following symptoms:
- Abdominal Pain: Dull or throbbing pain in the abdomen or lower back, which may be persistent or intermittent.
- Pulsating Mass: A pulsating sensation in the abdomen, usually felt by placing a hand over the affected area.
- Rapid Heart Rate: In some instances, an unexplained rapid heart rate may be an indicator of a potential aneurysm.
It's important to note that these symptoms can be indicative of other conditions as well. If you experience any of these signs, we recommend seeking immediate medical attention for a proper evaluation.
Screening & Diagnosing Abdominal Aortic Aneurysms
At The Iowa Clinic, our expert vascular surgeons use state-of-the-art imaging techniques to diagnose Abdominal Aneurysms accurately. One such common diagnostic tool is an ultrasound scan, which is safe, non-invasive, and highly effective in detecting aneurysms.
How do you treat abdominal aneurysms?
Treatment options for Abdominal Aneurysms may vary based on the aneurysm's size, location, and overall health of the patient. Our vascular surgeons specialize in the following treatments:
- Monitoring: For smaller aneurysms that do not pose an immediate threat, regular monitoring through ultrasounds or CT scans may be recommended.
- Endovascular Aneurysm Repair (EVAR): This minimally invasive procedure involves the placement of a stent graft within the weakened section of the aorta, providing support and preventing further expansion.
- Open Surgical Repair: For larger or complex aneurysms, traditional open surgery may be necessary to remove the weakened portion of the aorta and replace it with a synthetic graft.
Risks and Complications of AAA
Like any medical procedure, treatments for Abdominal Aneurysms carry some inherent risks. These risks may include infection, bleeding, blood clots, and adverse reactions to anesthesia. However, our experienced vascular surgeons take every precaution to minimize these risks.