Early diagnosis plays a crucial role in the successful treatment of abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAAs). According to research, more than 95% of cases can be successfully treated when diagnosed early.

What Is an Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm?

An aneurysm occurs when the wall of the aorta, the largest artery in the human body, weakens and gradually begins to bulge. An abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) develops in the section of the aorta that passes through the abdomen.

If an aneurysm is not detected and managed in time, it may continue to grow and eventually rupture, causing severe internal bleeding. This is a life-threatening medical emergency that requires immediate intervention.

What Are the Symptoms of an Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm?

Abdominal aortic aneurysms often develop silently, without causing any noticeable symptoms. As a result, many people remain unaware that they have the condition.

However, some patients may experience:

• A pulsating sensation in the abdomen
• Unexplained abdominal pain, which may sometimes be severe
• Persistent or intense lower back pain
• In rare cases, pain, discoloration or sores on the feet

The absence of symptoms makes preventive screening particularly important for individuals at increased risk.

How Is an Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Diagnosed?

The preferred screening and diagnostic method for abdominal aortic aneurysms is abdominal aortic ultrasound (duplex ultrasound), a completely painless, non-invasive and safe examination.

Ultrasound allows physicians to accurately assess the size and location of an aneurysm. Based on these findings, the treating physician can determine the most appropriate management strategy, whether this involves regular monitoring or surgical intervention.

Who Is at Risk of Developing an Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm?

Preventive ultrasound screening is particularly important for individuals who belong to higher-risk groups.

Risk factors include:

• Men over the age of 60
• A history of atherosclerosis
• A family history of abdominal aortic aneurysms
• Smoking
• High blood pressure (hypertension)
• Chronic pulmonary disease

Identifying an aneurysm before it causes symptoms or ruptures can significantly improve treatment outcomes.

How Is an Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Treated?

The treatment of an abdominal aortic aneurysm depends on several factors, including its size, growth rate, location and the patient’s overall health.

Smaller aneurysms may require regular monitoring, while larger or rapidly growing aneurysms may require surgical intervention.

Today, many abdominal aortic aneurysms that require surgical treatment can be managed using a minimally invasive technique known as endovascular aneurysm repair (EVAR).

This procedure involves placing a stent graft inside the aorta to reinforce the weakened arterial wall and reduce the risk of rupture.

Compared with conventional open surgical repair, endovascular treatment generally offers several advantages:

• Significantly shorter hospitalization
• Reduced surgical trauma
• Faster recovery
• Lower rates of certain short-term complications

Early diagnosis remains one of the most important factors in preventing life-threatening complications and ensuring the best possible treatment outcomes.

Dr. Nikos Paraskevas is a Vascular Surgeon and Angiologist, and Director of the 2nd Vascular Surgery Department at HYGEIA Hospital.