Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm

Definition

Abdominal Aortic Aneurysms (AAA) are found in the lower part of the aorta, located in the abdomen. The aorta is the largest artery in the human body and supplies a large percentage of blood. So, it is critical to monitor the growth of any aneurysm. Abdominal aneurysms typically grow slowly without telltale symptoms. However, if an aneurysm becomes enlarged, it has the potential to rupture and become a threat to life. 

A history of smoking accounts for about 75% of all abdominal aortic aneurysms.

Noticeable signs that an AAA has become enlarged and/or ruptured include: 

  • Sudden, intense pain in your back, abdomen, or on the side of your belly that is deep and constant

  • The feeling of a fast pulse around your navel area

  • Blocked blood flow to legs, toes, kidneys, or abdominal organs

If the pain is sudden and sharp, seek emergency care immediately.

The development of an abdominal aortic aneurysm can be caused by high blood pressure, blood vessel diseases, aortic infections, hardening of the arteries (atherosclerosis), or even trauma from an injury, such as a car accident. 

While anyone can develop an AAA, it is more often found in Caucasian males, 65 years or older. Longtime tobacco users have the greatest risk for aortic aneurysms. Also, a history of AAA in your family or the presence of thoracic aortic aneurysm can increase your risk. 

  • Medical exam and patient history

  • Abdominal ultrasound and CT scans to monitor AAA growth

  • Lifestyle Changes – A healthier diet, controlled blood pressure and cholesterol levels, and regular exercise can help prevent or slow the growth of an aortic aneurysm

  • Smoking – Avoid smoking, chewing tobacco, or second-hand smoke

  • Control Blood pressure – If you are a diabetic patient, this is critical.

Open Surgery – When an AAA is over five centimeters in size, open surgery may be recommended. An expanded portion of the abdominal aorta is replaced with a graft to allow blood to flow safely. The aorta is sewn around the graft for protection and reinforcement. 

Endovascular Repair – A mesh and fabric graft is placed inside the abdominal aorta using X-ray to correctly position the graft, and then it is secured above and below the aneurysm.

You can depend on the expert team of medical professionals at Vascular Tyler to help you determine your best treatment options, based on your test results.

For questions or to schedule an appointment, contact us at 903.533.8702.

Testimonials

The Patient Experience

Dr. Robbins looked at my imaging and made an appointment that same day for me to come in. At Vascular Tyler, it’s just like a family environment every time I come in here. If I have to go the doctor’s (office), this is where I want to go.
L. Cunningham, Patient
We don’t want to spend a whole lot of time with rehabilitation or in some sort of medical facility, so it was great discovering that there’s only little or no downtime. It was a matter of hours instead of days or weeks.
B. Finch, Patient
I had excruciating pain and was told I needed a knee replacement. But Dr. Robbins said I just need vascular surgery. They gave me relief from my pain, and they’re kind and interested in you as a patient and a person. This is the place to come.
M. Finch, Patient

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