AAA

Question 1

What is the definition of an abdominal aortic aneurysm?

Answer 1

A dilation / outpouching of the abdominal aortic wall

Question 2

What are the 3 types of AAA?

Answer 2

1. Saccular
   - bulging on one side
2. Fusiform
   - bulging around entire circumference
3. Ruptured

Question 3

Why is the abdominal aorta the most common site for aortic aneurysms?

Answer 3

Because of constant intravascular and intra-abdominal stress / pressure

Question 4

What are the risk factors for an AAA?

Answer 4

• atherosclerosis
• hypertension
• tobacco
• connective tissue disorders and infection (rare)

Question 5

What complications can occur in a case of AAA?

Answer 5

• rupture (often fatal)
• thrombus formation from stagnant blood flow
• occlusion / ischaemia of blood supply to abdominopelvic viscera and lower body (PVD)

Question 6

What are features of a ruptured AAA?

Answer 6

• acute abdominal pain
• hypovolaemic shock
• severe
• sudden onset

Question 7

What are the SSX of an AAA?

Answer 7

• often asymptomatic until ruptured
• pulsatile mass in lower abdomen
• abdominal bruits
• pressure on surrounding organs can cause dysphagia and dyspnoea