Aneurysmal disease: the abdominal aorta

Surg Clin North Am. 2013 Aug;93(4):877-91, viii. doi: 10.1016/j.suc.2013.05.005. Epub 2013 Jul 3.

Abstract

Abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) is one of the leading causes of death in the United States. Approximately 80% of AAAs occur in the infrarenal abdominal aorta. Most are caused by a degenerative process in the aortic wall, and smoking is the risk factor most strongly associated with AAA. Contrast-enhanced computed tomography is the most reliable imaging modality. Open repair is more invasive initially but more durable, whereas endovascular aneurysm repair is less invasive but less durable. Since degradation of the aorta progresses with age, continuous follow-up after aneurysmal repair improves the long-term outcome.

Keywords: Abdominal aortic aneurysm; Asymptomatic; Endoleak; Endovascular aneurysm repair; Open repair; Ruptured.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adrenergic beta-Agonists / therapeutic use
  • Age Factors
  • Aortic Aneurysm, Abdominal / diagnosis
  • Aortic Aneurysm, Abdominal / etiology
  • Aortic Aneurysm, Abdominal / surgery*
  • Aortic Rupture / diagnosis
  • Aortic Rupture / etiology
  • Aortic Rupture / surgery*
  • Diagnostic Imaging / methods
  • Dyslipidemias / complications
  • Early Diagnosis
  • Endarterectomy / methods
  • Humans
  • Hydroxymethylglutaryl-CoA Reductase Inhibitors / therapeutic use
  • Hypertension / complications
  • Medical History Taking / methods
  • Physical Examination / methods
  • Preoperative Care / methods
  • Pulmonary Disease, Chronic Obstructive / complications
  • Risk Factors
  • Sex Factors
  • Smoking / adverse effects
  • Smoking Cessation

Substances

  • Adrenergic beta-Agonists
  • Hydroxymethylglutaryl-CoA Reductase Inhibitors