Aneurysms Flashcards
Define aneurysm
a permanent localised dilatation of an artery of more than 50% of the normal diameter of the artery
Define a true aneurysm
Pathological degeneration of part of the whole of teh vessel wall
Define a false aneurysm
Leakage of arterial blood into a cavity surrounded by connective tissue which is expansile and pulsatile
What is the normal diameter of the abdominal aorta?
1.5-2cm
Define ectasia
Localised area of enlargement of an artery but less than 1.5 times its normal size
Define arteriomegaly
The generalised enlargement of the arterial tree
Define aortic dissection
Tear in the intima of the aorta which causes blood to enter the media which splits the inner 2/3 and outer 1/3
How do you diagnose an aneurysm?
MRI
CT Scan
Trans-oesophageal echogadiogram
What is the pathology of aneurysm formation?
Due to loss of elastin and smooth muscle from the medial wall, leading to a systemic dilatation.
What is the usual rate of expansion of aneurysms?
10% per year
0.2-0.8 cm per year
When would an aneurysm be considered big enough to operate on?
- 5cm or greater
- 25% at this diameter will rupture within the next five years
Give some of the main risk factors for aneurysms
Smoking Male Increasing age Family history Caucasian Connective tissue disease
What are the main symptoms of an ruptured abdominal aneurysm?
Abdominal pain - sudden Pulsatile mass Hypovolaemia Shock Collapse
What are the different types of surgery than can be done?
Open repair
Endovascular repair
What are the indications for open repair?
Healthy patients with an aorta diameter of > 5.5cm
