Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm

Question 1

What is an Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm (AAA)?

Answer 1

An enlargement in the descending aorta as it runs through the abdominal area.
8% of men over 65 have one

Question 2

If untreated an AAA can rupture. What are the S&S of a ruptured AAA?

Answer 2

-Sudden onset of pain
-Sudden hypotension
-Intermittent or continuous abdominal pain
-Pain radiates to the back or groin
-Collapse
Sweating
-Expansile abdominal mass
-Shock s&s

Question 3

Where are the majority of AAA’s specifically found?

Answer 3

90% start below the renal arteries, 15% descend to the iliac arteries.
Most people with AAA are asymptomatic.

Question 4

What are some complications of AAA?

Answer 4

-Rupture
-Renal Failure
-Lower limb ischaemia
-mesenteric ischaemia

Question 5

AAA risk factors?

Answer 5

Same as those for cardiac disease
-Smoking
-hypertension
-hypercholesterolemia
-atherosclerosis
-Old age
-Male