Definition: What Is an Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm?

An abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) is a localized enlargement or bulging of the abdominal section of the aorta, the main blood vessel that supplies blood to the abdomen, pelvis, and legs. The aneurysm occurs when the wall of this blood vessel weakens and stretches, posing the risk of rupture, which can be life-threatening.

Causes: How Does an Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Develop?

The exact cause of AAA is not always clear, but it is often associated with factors that weaken the aortic wall over time. Common risk factors include:

• Atherosclerosis (build-up of plaque inside the arteries)
• High blood pressure (hypertension)
• Smoking
• Family history of aneurysms
• Older age (especially over 65)
• Male gender
• Certain genetic conditions (such as Marfan syndrome or Ehlers-Danlos syndrome)

Symptoms: What Are the Signs of an Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm?

In many cases, abdominal aortic aneurysms develop slowly and without symptoms. They are often found incidentally during exams for other conditions. When symptoms do occur, they may include:

• A pulsating feeling near the navel
• Deep, constant pain in the abdomen or on the side of the abdomen
• Back pain

A sudden, severe, and persistent pain in the abdomen or back may indicate a ruptured aneurysm, which requires immediate medical attention.

Diagnosis: How Is an Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Detected?

Diagnosis usually begins with a physical exam, but most AAAs are detected with imaging tests such as:

• Ultrasound: The most common screening tool, especially for people at higher risk
• CT scan or MRI: Used to determine the size and extent of the aneurysm, especially if surgery is being considered

Screening is often recommended for men aged 65 to 75 who have ever smoked.

Treatment: How Is an Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Treated?

Treatment depends on the size and growth rate of the aneurysm:

• Monitoring: Small aneurysms are monitored regularly with imaging and managed by controlling blood pressure, cholesterol, and quitting smoking.
• Surgery: Larger aneurysms (typically over 5.5 cm) or those growing rapidly may require surgical repair, either with open surgery or minimally invasive endovascular aneurysm repair (EVAR).
• Emergency surgery: Required if the aneurysm ruptures.

Your doctor will recommend the most appropriate approach based on your risk and overall health.

Risks: What Are the Risks Associated With Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm?

The main risk of AAA is rupture, which causes internal bleeding and is often fatal without immediate treatment. Other risks include:

• Blood clots (thromboembolism), which can block blood flow to other organs or limbs
• Compression of nearby structures, causing pain or dysfunction
• Complications from surgery, if operative repair is done

Regular monitoring and early detection greatly reduce the risks associated with abdominal aortic aneurysms.

If you have concerns about your risk for an abdominal aortic aneurysm, or if you have been diagnosed and need advice, please consult a vascular specialist. The experts and clinics listed here have been thoroughly checked for their specialization in Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm and can provide professional guidance, diagnosis, and treatment.