Aortic Aneurysm

Question 1

What is an aortic aneurysm?

Answer 1

Dilation of >1.5x the artery’s original size

Question 2

What is the normal aortic diameter?

Answer 2

1.2 - 2 cm

Question 3

What are common sizes of aortic aneurysms?

Answer 3

Aortic (mainly infra-sternal)
Iliac
Femoral
Popilateal

Question 4

Despite common misconception, aortic aneurysms are NOT caused by?

Answer 4

Atherosclerosis

Question 5

What is the pathophysiology of aortic aneurysm?

Answer 5

Degeneration of tunica media (imbalance of breaking/building proteins) 
Weakening of arterial wall 
Dilation
Increase aortic wall stress
Progressive dialtion
Can rupture w/o intervention

Question 6

What are risk factors for aortic aneurysm?

Answer 6

Smoking 
Age
Male 
Hypertension
Hx of aneurysm

Question 7

What are signs/symptoms ?

Answer 7

Abdominal pain radiating to the gal, iliac fossa, or femoral

Expansile abdominal mass - pulse transmitted towards flanks

Question 8

What are investigations to diagnose?

Answer 8

USS

CT scan with contrast

Question 9

What are complications of aortic aneurysm?

Answer 9

Rupture, thrombosis, embolism, fistulae

Pressure on other structures

Question 10

How can aortic aneurysms be prevented?

Answer 10

Regular USS

Treat Hypertension

Question 11

Who should be screened?

Answer 11

Men > 65

Question 12

What are treatment options?

Answer 12

Stenting (Endovascular via femoral)

Surgery - open repair / EVAR

Question 13

Rupture of an aortic aneurysm requires?

Answer 13

Emergency surgical repair