Abdominal aortic aneurysm

Alternative names:

aneurysm - aortic

Treatment:

If the aneurysm is small and there are no symptoms (for example, if the aneurysm is found during a routine physical examination), periodic evaluation to watch for changes may be recommended.

Symptomatic aneurysms may require treatment to prevent complications. Antihypertensive medications may be prescribed to reduce blood pressure. Other medications may include analgesics to relieve pain.

Surgical repair or replacement of the section of aorta is often recommended. The goal of treatment is timely surgical intervention before complications develop.

The risk of complications increases as the size of the aneurysm increases. Because surgery for abdominal aortic aneurysm is risky, the surgeon may wait for the aneurysm to expand to a certain size before operating (that is, when the risk of complications exceeds the risk of surgery).

Expectations (prognosis):

The probable outcome is good when an aneurysm is monitored carefully and if surgical repair is performed before the aorta ruptures. Aortic rupture is life threatening. Less than 50% of all people with a ruptured abdominal aortic aneurysm survive.

Complications:

• aortic rupture
• bleeding from the aorta
• hypovolemic shock
• arterial embolism
• insufficient circulation past the aneurysm
• irreversible damage to the kidneys (kidney failure)
• myocardial infarction
• stroke
• aortic dissection

Calling your health care provider:

Go to the emergency room or call the local emergency number (such as 911) if you develop severe abdominal pain or other symptoms that are suggestive of an abdominal aortic aneurysm.