Question

Management of abdominal aortic aneurysm.

Hint:

Regular monitoring of small AAAs is crucial to detect any enlargement and prevent rupture.

Answer 1

Step 1: Understanding Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm (AA.
An abdominal aortic aneurysm (AA is an enlargement of the lower part of the aorta, the large blood vessel that supplies blood to the abdomen, pelvis, and legs. An untreated AAA can rupture, leading to life-threatening internal bleeding.

Step 2: Management of AAA.
The management of AAA includes:

Observation: Small, asymptomatic AAAs (less than 5 cm in diameter) may be monitored with regular ultrasounds or CT scans.
Medical treatment: Blood pressure control is essential to reduce the risk of rupture. Statins and antibiotics may be used to manage risk factors.
Surgical repair: For AAAs over 5.5 cm or symptomatic ones, surgery is recommended. This can be done through open surgery or endovascular aneurysm repair (EVAR), where a stent is inserted to reinforce the artery.

Step 3: Conclusion.
AAA management revolves around timely diagnosis and intervention, with surgical repair being the primary treatment for larger aneurysms.