Ultrasonographic screening for abdominal aortic aneurysms

Article Abstract:

Abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAAs) occur in 1 of 20 older men, remain asymptomatic for many years, and, if left untreated, cause death from rupture in about one third of patients. Ultrasonography is a suitable screening test for AAA, and elective repair can prevent rupture. Although these features suggest a promising target for a screening program, evidence of benefit from AAA screening has only recently become available. Four randomized trials of ultrasonographic screening involving more than 125 000 men have been reported, and each trial observed a reduction in AAA-related mortality (which was statistically significant in 2 trials), ranging from 21% to 68%. One trial in women found no benefit. Other studies indicate that screening can begin in men older than 65 years of age and does not need to be repeated if results are negative. An AAA larger than 5.5 cm in diameter should be considered for elective open or endovascular repair. Most aneurysms detected at screening are smaller and should be kept under surveillance with periodic imaging measurement. Widespread elective repair of small AAAs could reduce the benefits and increase the costs of screening. No medical treatments have been proven to reduce the enlargement rate. If elective repair is reserved for larger AAAs, one-time ultrasonographic screening for AAA can be recommended for men 65 to 79 years of age who have never smoked.

Author Abstract

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Prevalence and associations of abdominal aortic aneurysm detected through screening

Article Abstract:

Smoking appears to be a strong risk factor for abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA). An aneurysm is a weakening of the walls of an artery that can make the artery balloon out. In a study of 73,451 veterans between 50 and 79 years old, 1,031 (1.4%) were found to have an AAA 4 centimeters or larger. Smokers had more than 5 times the risk of AAA than non-smokers. In fact, smoking accounted for 78% of the AAAs. Family history of AAA was also a risk factor, but only 5% of the group had such a history. Age, hypertension, coronary artery disease, and elevated cholesterol were also associated with AAA.

Health aspects, Risk factors, Smoking, Veterans, Aortic aneurysms, Aortic aneurysm

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Ultrasound screening for abdominal aortic aneurysm

Article Abstract:

All men 65 years and older might benefit from an ultrasound screen of their abdomen to see whether they have an abdominal aortic aneurysm. An aneurysm is a weakening of the artery, which makes one side expand like a balloon. If it bursts, the patient will most likely die. This happens most often in elderly men and usually only if the aneurysm is more than two inches in diameter.

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