Abdominal aortic aneurysm
Also called: AAA, Triple A
A balloon-like widening of the aorta in the abdomen to 3 cm or more. It grows silently; if it ruptures, massive internal bleeding is usually fatal — which is why men over 65 are offered screening.
Condition-specific references are below. Individual claims and this page have not been clinically reviewed. Read about this content.
About 1–2% of men aged 65; much less common in women.
What happens in the body
Degeneration of elastic and collagen fibres in the aortic wall, driven by inflammation, smoking and genetics, lets the wall stretch progressively.
Causes
- Degenerative weakening of the aortic wall
Risk factors
- Smoking (strongest)
- Male sex and age over 65
- Family history
- Hypertension
- Atherosclerosis
Symptoms
- Usually none
- Pulsating lump in the abdomen
- Back or abdominal pain if enlarging
- Rupture: sudden severe abdominal or back pain, collapse
Diagnosis — tests and examinations
- Ultrasound screening
- CT angiography to plan repair
Treatment
Medicines and medical treatment
- Surveillance scans for small aneurysms
- Stop smoking, control blood pressure, statins
Operations and procedures
- Endovascular aneurysm repair (EVAR) with a stent-graft
- Open surgical repair
- Repair usually advised at ≥5.5 cm in men (≥5.0 cm in women) or rapid growth
Self-care, home remedies and lifestyle
- Stop smoking — it doubles growth rate
- Attend all surveillance scans
Possible complications
- Rupture (life-threatening)
- Emboli to the legs
Prevention
- Not smoking; screening of men at 65
Outlook
Excellent with planned repair; ruptured AAA carries a mortality of 80% or more.
When to see a doctor
Call emergency services for sudden severe abdominal or back pain with dizziness or collapse, especially if you have a known aneurysm.
Sources and further reading
These sources cover this condition. They have not been checked against every statement on this page.
Related conditions
Educational overview, not medical advice. Treatment varies by person and location. Consult a qualified health professional for diagnosis or care. Read our content and model notes and privacy information.