Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm (AAA) Infographic series (2)

What are the symptoms of AAA?
 
AAA is usually symptom free before it ruptures, which makes it difficult to detect at an early stage. Some patients may feel a pulsatile mass in their tummy. Any symptoms of abdominal or back pain in an AAA patient is suggestive of rupture aneurysm. Urgent medical assessment is necessary.

Who will have AAA?
 
Smoking, aging, diabetes, high cholesterol and hypertension are the major risk factors of developing AAA and males are at greater risk than females.

 
How to diagnose AAA?

 
Despite the difficulty of detecting AAA at an early stage, a simple ultrasound scanning of the abdomen can already accurately diagnose AAA. Further detail imaging with CT scan, MRI, or angiogram are only necessary when surgical intervention of the AAA is necessary. Although the mortality rate of a ruptured AAA is high, it is still preventable. Quitting smoking, controlling high blood pressure, regular exercise and a healthy diet will contribute to reducing the risks of developing AAA.

When & how to treat AAA?
 
Surgical intervention of the AAA is necessary when the size of the aneurysm is > 5cm in diameter. We want to fix the aneurysm before it ruptures.

There are currently 2 treatment options for AAA. Endovascular Aneurysm Repair (EVAR) is a minimally invasive surgery involving only small wounds at the groins. It is associated with less pain, faster recovery, and is safer compared with open surgery.

The traditional open repair of AAA involves large abdominal wound. Although it is more durable, it is more invasive and is currently reserved for cases with anatomy not suitable for EVAR.

Reference information: http://esteemmedical.com.hk/aortic-aneurysms.html
It is not intended as medical advice to any specific person. If you have any need for personal advice or have any questions regarding your health, please consult your doctor for diagnosis and treatment.