Strong Heart and Vascular Center

Division of Vascular Surgery

Contact Us New Patients If you'd like to schedule an appointment, call us at 585-341-7030. Referring Physicians To refer a patient for a consultation, call us at 585-341-7030.

Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm

What is an Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm?

An abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) is caused by a weakening of the aortic wall. Over time, blood flow can cause the weak portion of the vessel to “balloon” or bulge. AAA occurs in the abdominal section of the aorta, the main blood vessel that carries blood away from the heart. Aneurysms can rupture, causing internal bleeding if not treated.

Learn more about AAA

• Who is at risk for aneurysms?
• What causes an aneurysm?

Symptoms of AAA

Most people with AAA do not feel any symptoms. Symptoms may include:

• A rhythmic, pulsating feeling in the abdomen - much like a heartbeat
  
  
• A deep, steady pain in the abdomen or lower back (pain may also be intermittent)
  
  
• Severe, sudden abdominal or back pain, which may indicate imminent rupture

If you are experiencing symptoms like these, it is important for you to see your doctor.

• Abdominal ultrasonography (ultrasound)
• Computed tomography (CT or CAT) scan
• Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)

Treatment Options

Your will doctor work with you to develop a treatment plan that fits your needs. Treatment options for AAA depend on the size of the aneurysm, your overall health and the functioning of your heart, kidneys and lungs.

If you have an aneurysm that is smaller than 2 inches in diameter and does not cause any symptoms, it may be monitored regularly by your physician. Usually, this involves having an ultrasound or CT test every 6 months to check for enlargement.

Your physician may recommend surgery if your aneurysm is larger than 2 inches in diameter or causes symptoms. The following procedures are used to repair AAA:

• Surgical aneurysm repair (open aneurysm repair)
• Endovascular stent graft