Abdominal Aortic Aneurysms
If you’re experiencing abdominal pain, it may be an abdominal aneurysm.
An abdominal aortic aneurysm occurs when there is weakness or thinning of the vessel wall, which then causes an abnormal ballooning of the vessel. Symptoms of abdominal aortic aneurysms include a pulsing or throbbing in the abdomen or a piercing pain in the abdomen or lower back.
Repair of abdominal aortic aneurysms
Our team has a number of options when it comes to repair of abdominal aortic aneurysms.
- If the aneurysm is small, we may recommend keeping an eye on it, which involves coming in for checkups every six to 12 months.
- If the aneurysm is large or growing, we may perform an open surgical aneurysm repair to replace the weakened part of the aorta with an aortic graft.
There is also a relatively new procedure called an endovascular stent graft. This less invasive procedure uses catheters inside the artery to guide the endovascular stent graft (a fabric and metal tube) to the site of the aneurysm.
Schedule an appointment
Memorial offers a screening to find out if you’re at risk for abdominal aortic aneurysm. Schedule an appointment for a screening or a consultation by calling 618-222-1020.