Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm
The largest artery in the body is the aorta. When under a great amount of pressure, the aorta can bulge, creating an aneurysm (Figure 1); this usually occurs in a weak part of the artery. Aneurysm is derived from the Greek term "aneurysma", which means dilation. An abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) is a widening in one part of the abdominal aorta. This paper will cover how an aneurysm is developed and diagnosed, different types of aneurysms, clinical values, stages of aneurysms, what the risk factors are, who is at risk, treatment options, cost, and what will happen if an aneurysm erupts. A normal aorta measures less than 3 centimeters. Aneurysms are categorized by an increase in diameter of 1.5 times greater than the normal diameter (Hagen, 2012). According to Sandy Hagen, development is based on a number of things such as, trauma, congenital defects, atherosclerosis, syphilis, mycosis, cystic medial necrosis, inflammation of the media and adventitia, increased pressure, and abnormal volume load, which means a severe aortic regurgitation. Men who are active smokers, have high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and have a family history of AAA are considered at the highest risk for developing an AAA. 30%-60% of patients diagnosed with AAA are asymptomatic. According to the National Library of Medicine, an aneurysm is typically found during a physical examination. The physician may feel a large pulsatile mass in the abdomen, and feel the pulsation of the aorta. To verify findings, an angiogram, computed tomography (CT) or ultrasound may be performed (Figure 2). Aneurysms are classified under two categories: true aneurysm and pseudoaneurysm. A true aneurysm occurs when the aneurysm is lined by all three layers of the aorta (tunica intima, tunica media, tunica adventitia). The occurrence of this type of aneurysm forms when tensile strength decreases in the wall. Meaning, the strength in the wall of the aorta weakens under tension. A pseudoaneurysm is
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