Screening for abdominal aortic aneurysms
Dr Duncan Anderson offers screening for abdominal aortic aneurysms at his practice. Abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) is a slow ballooning of the heart valve - also known as the aorta. Screening can help determine if you need medical treatment for AAA.
Most people with abdominal aortic aneurysms do not have any symptoms. Men suffer with the condition more so than women. AAAs are usually discovered during routine GP consults or ultrasounds. When an abdominal aneurysm begins to expand, you or your doctor may notice a throbbing in the middle or lower part of your stomach, there may also be some lower back pain, or tenderness in your chest. Most abdominal aneurysms are discovered and identified during routine medical examinations.
In most cases, an abdominal aortic aneurysm causes no noticeable symptoms, however, if it becomes large, some people may develop a pain or a pulsating feeling in their abdomen, or persistent back pain. The most common symptom of a ruptured aortic aneurysm is sudden and severe pain in the abdomen.
The treatment of abdominal aortic aneurysm depends on the severity, and is aimed at avoiding rupturing. Small ones may only need supportive care and monitoring through regular follow-up appointments. Aneurysms that are considered too large or growing too quickly should be repaired with surgery. Patients who stop smoking may slow the growth of their aneurysm.
Surgical Treatment Options
A surgical repair is generally recommended if your aneurysm measures 4.8 to 5.6 centimetres or larger, or if it's growing quickly. Doctor Anderson might recommend surgery if you are experiencing symptoms such as tenderness and stomach pain.
Depending on several factors, including the patient's age, the location and size of the aneurysm, and the other medical conditions the patient has, repair options might include:
- Endovascular repair: This less invasive procedure is preferable, however, endovascular surgery is not an option for everyone. Dr Anderson will attach a synthetic graft to the end of a catheter, which is inserted through an artery in your leg and threaded through up into your aorta. A graft is a woven tube covered by a metal mesh support that is placed at the site of the aneurysm, expanded and secured in place - reinforcing the weakened section of the aorta and preventing rupture. After endovascular surgery, patients require regular imaging tests to ensure that the repair isn't leaking.
- Open abdominal surgery: This involves removing the damaged section of the aorta and replacing it with a synthetic tube (graft), which is sewn into place. Recovery may take a month or more.
Long-term survival rates are similar for both surgical options.
Dr Duncan Anderson is highly trained, skilled and experienced, and is able to perform any of the selected procedures and provide the greatest level of care to his patients.