Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm

Dear Doctors,
Can a heart catherization and/or a thallium stress test detect an abdominal aortic aneursym?  What are the most definitive tests to detect this kind of aneurysm?  What are some of the treatments for this aneurysm as a function of size of the aneurysm?  That is, if the aneurysm is small is it just monitored on a regular basis?  Is there a treatment similar to an angioplasty where a stent(sleeve like device) is inserted via catheter?
Thanks - Cody

[CCF-M.D.-KE]

Dear Cody,

An abdominal CT scan is probably the best way to characterize an abdominal aortic aneurysm.  In a low risk person elective surgery should be considered when the aneursym is >4.0cm in diameter. Elective repair is definitely indicated  when the aneurysm is between 4.5cm and 5cm. If a person does not quite meet the criteria for surgery they should be followed and have their blood pressure aggressively treated. A person should undergo regular follow-up CT scans to measure the progression of the aneurysm approximately every 6 months.  There are intravascular stents available for people with aortic aneurysms but they are being done at few centers in select patients.
For more information I would recommend scheduling an appointment with a vasuclar surgeon at a large university based medical center. You can also visit our website at www.ccf.org or call for an appointment at 1-800-CCF-CARE. Hope this answers your question.

Thanks for your question,


CCF-MD-KE

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A related discussion, abdominal aotic anuresym was started.