An aortic aneurysm is an abnormal bulge in the wall of the aorta, the body's largest artery. An aneurysm in the abdomen is an abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA).
Numerous factors can contribute to AAA including high blood pressure, high cholesterol and genetics. Most abdominal aortic aneurysms do not cause symptoms. However, they can be life-threatening if they grow too large and rupture or burst. An aneurysm can be found on imaging studies intended for other reasons or can be identified on screening ultrasounds for patients over age 55 who have a history of tobacco use or a strong family history of aneurysms.
The Heart and Vascular Center vascular surgery team specializes in both AAA and thoracoabdominal aneurysms that affect the chest and abdomen.
Depending on aneurysm size, treatment may include medication to control blood pressure and cholesterol or aneurysm repair by vascular surgeons. This may be through an open surgical operation or, more commonly, endovascular, minimally invasive techniques. Our skilled aortic surgery team has excellent surgical outcomes.
Most patients undergoing endovascular aneurysm repair will be able to return home on the day after surgery. Patients undergoing open repair will typically stay in the hospital four to seven days. After surgery, your vascular surgeon will monitor you regularly using either ultrasound or CT scans to evaluate your repair. These tests are usually performed on an annual basis.
