Abdominal aortic aneurysm

Abdominal aortic aneurysm is a pathological dilation of the aorta, more than 3 cm. Usually, this condition does not cause symptoms and is found incidentally. The most common complaints of patients are abdominal and back pain. Medical professionals diagnose this condition using imaging studies such as ultrasound and computed tomography scans. Surgeons decide to perform surgery when the risk of aortic rupture surpasses the operative risk, which typically occurs when the diameter exceeds 5.5 cm in men and 5 cm in women. Surgical complications can include damage to the heart and lungs, vessel wall ischemia, and fistula formation. While endovascular treatment methods offer a safer alternative, they can also lead to complications like stent occlusion and stent migration.

Source | Author Doctor Nikas Samuolis, reviewed by Prof. Virginijus Šapoka | Vilnius University | Faculty of Medicine | Head of the Department of Internal Medicine, Family Medicine, and Oncology