The cardiovascular diseases

ANEURYSM OF THE ABDOMINAL AORTA

- Definition
- A few explanations
- The symptoms
- What does the physician notice?
- How to make the diagnosis?
- Once the diagnosis made, an operative check-up is required
- Complications
- The causes
- Clinical shape, Evolution, Prognosis
- Treatment, Conclusion

HOW TO MAKE THE DIAGNOSIS?

1 - By making an x-ray of the abdomen called “abdomen without preparation*” or AWP  (abbreviated): *(N.d.T. : a simple x-ray of the abdomen.)

This x-ray only shows the aneurysm if it is calcified. It is then seen especially on the profile. The calcifications then draw the aneurismal wall.

2 - Ultrasound and scanner

The ultrasound of the abdomen perfectly localizes the aneurysm, rudely measures its size, and specifies the existence of a possible clot.

The abdominal scanner brings supplementary information (precise measurements, extension upand downward) but does not release from the preoperative angiography.

Once the diagnosis has been made, the preoperative balance consists of 2 aspects: the local check-up and the general check-up.

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File last modified on june 12, 2006