At Nuffield Vascular and Interventional Radiology, we understand the seriousness and potential risks of aortic aneurysms. Our team creates comprehensive care plans designed to prioritise your safety and well-being, guiding you towards a healthier and stronger heart.
The aorta, the body’s main blood vessel, carries blood from the heart to the rest of the body. It runs from the chest to the abdomen, where it branches into the iliac arteries, which supply blood to the lower body and legs. Over time, due to aging or conditions like high blood pressure, a section of the aorta can weaken and bulge outward like a balloon.
As the walls of the aorta stretch and thin, this bulging can enlarge further, a condition known as an aortic aneurysm. Learn more about our overview of peripheral arterial disease and aortic aneurysms.
An aneurysm can develop in any part of the aorta, from its origin to the iliac arteries.
In clinical practice, we commonly encounter four types of aortic aneurysms:
In its early stages, a small aortic aneurysm (AA) typically does not pose an immediate health risk. However, as it grows, the walls of the aorta or iliac arteries can weaken, becoming thin and less elastic. These weakened sections may eventually fail to withstand the pressure of blood flow, potentially leading to a rupture, which can result in severe internal bleeding and be life-threatening.
Regular monitoring and follow-up with ultrasound or CT scans are essential to manage and assess the progression of an aneurysm.
Unfortunately, most patients with an aortic aneurysm (AA) do not experience any symptoms. For those who do, the most common symptom is pain, which may occur in the abdomen, back, or chest. This pain can range from mild discomfort to severe tenderness in the mid to upper abdomen or lower back. Some individuals may also notice a pulsating or throbbing mass in their abdomen.
Aortic aneurysms are often detected incidentally during medical examinations for unrelated reasons. Asymptomatic aneurysms are frequently discovered during CT scans performed for other medical concerns.
When an aneurysm is small, regular monitoring with ultrasound (US) or CT scans is necessary to track its size and growth. However, if the aneurysm becomes large or shows rapid growth, the risk of rupture increases, requiring treatment.
Treatment options for an aortic aneurysm (AA) include:
Stent grafts are a safer and less invasive alternative. This procedure involves inserting the stent graft through a small 1 cm incision in the groin, eliminating the need for abdominal surgery.
These techniques enable minimally invasive treatment for nearly all aortic aneurysms, even highly complex ones, eliminating the need for open surgery.
I’m here to help you regain control of your health. Together, we’ll manage your symptoms and prevent future complications using personalised care and innovative technology. – Dr Suresh Babu