aneurysm Flashcards
1
Q
what is an aneurysm?
A
-an artery with dilatation >150% increase in normal diameter (1.2-2cm)
2
Q
common sites of aneurysm?
A
- aorta
- iliac
- femoral
- popliteal
3
Q
risks of developing an aneurysm?
A
- hypertension
- hypercholesterolemia
- diabetes
- cardiac disease
- PVD
- smoking
- family history
- male
4
Q
symptoms of unruptured AAA?
A
- often asymptomatic
- abdominal/back pain
5
Q
symptoms of ruptured AAA?
A
- intermittent or continuous abdominal pain (radiates to back, iliac, fossae or groins)
- collapse
- expansile abdominal mass
6
Q
investigations?
A
- USS
- CT with contrast (only method to identify ruptured aneurysms)
7
Q
complications of ruptured AAA?
A
mortality 75-90%
8
Q
when should an elective surgical repair be considered?
A
> 5.5cm
rate of exansion >1cm/year
9
Q
treatmenkt for ruptured AAA?
A
emergency surgical repair
