Overview

Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm

An abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) occurs when the wall of the aorta, the main artery in the chest and abdomen, progressively weakens and balloons outward. This causes a dilation of the vessel. Sometimes the iliac arteries may also be affected. The aneurysm will grow larger and eventually rupture if not diagnosed and treated. 

Most aneurysms are caused by a breakdown in the proteins providing structural strength to the wall of the aorta. While these proteins can gradually deteriorate with age, some conditions accelerate the process, including atherosclerosis, an excess of certain enzymes and in rare cases, infection.

Most doctors agree that patients should be seen and evaluated by a vascular surgeon if they have a abdominal aortic aneurysm that is four centimeters or larger.  Smaller aneurysms may also need treatment if they cause symptoms like back or abdominal pain, or if tests show the aneurysm has rapidly grown.  10% of all ruptured abdominal aortic aneurysms measure less than 5 centimeters.

As an added benefit, Medicare now covers an abdominal aortic ultrasound in their “Welcome to Medicare Examination” for patients who are at high risk for abdominal aortic aneurysms.  Please speak with your primary care provider to obtain this important screening in your “Welcome to Medicare Examination”.  You may also watch this video on the free Medicare abdominal aortic aneurysm screening benefit for qualified seniors which provides information about the abdominal aortic aneurysm screening that is included in the "Welcome to Medicare Examination".

View our Video on Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm

View Dr. Kelly's Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Pre Appointment Video