Aneurysms, Ischaemic Limbs, Occlusions

Question 1

List three significant vascular pathologies

Answer 1

aneurysm
ischaemic limb
occlusions

Question 2

Aneurysm

Answer 2

• abnormal dilation of blood vessels
• due to weakened vessel wall
• most common in aorta
• risk of rupture leading to life-threatening haemorrhage (e.g. AAA)

Question 3

Ischaemic limbs

Answer 3

• caused by inadequate blood supply
• secondary (mostly) to peripheral arterial disease (PAD)
• causes pain, non-healing ulcers, gangrene

Question 4

Vascular Occlusions

Answer 4

• blockages in vasculature
• caused by thrombus or emboli blocking vasculature, reducing blood flow
• results in tissue ischaemia and/or infarction
• in cerebral arteries = stroke
• in coronary arteries = MI