Aortic Aneurysm

Abstract

Aortic aneurysm is a lethal disease. Awareness of such a condition should prompt the physician to investigate further in suspected cases. X-rays, Doppler ultrasound, CT angiogram, MR angiogram and digital subtraction angiogram are all useful in making the diagnosis. A multi slice CT angiogram is the best investigation for confirming the diagnosis and planning the intervention. The details we need to know from the CT angiogram are the site of involvement, the extent of involvement, the diameter of the aneurysm, involvement of major branches in the aneurysm and the condition of the rest of the arterial tree.

Unless treated on time most of them die of aneurysm rupture. In young, fit patients, open repair is the choice of intervention. In elderly patients with co-morbidities endovascular repair is a viable option.