What does one-time screening for an abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) mean?

One-time screening for an abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) refers to a single abdominal ultrasound examination performed on individuals at risk, even if they have no symptoms. The goal of this screening is to detect any aneurysm in the abdominal aorta early, before it enlarges and the risk of rupture becomes high, which could lead to dangerous internal bleeding or death [1].

The aorta is the primary blood vessel that carries oxygen-rich blood from the heart to other parts of the body. When a portion of the aorta in the abdominal area expands, it is known as an abdominal aortic aneurysm. This expansion often develops slowly over many years without symptoms, making early screening essential for high-risk groups [2].

Who is advised to undergo one-time screening?

Medical guidelines recommend a one-time abdominal ultrasound screening for certain groups at risk of developing an AAA. This includes men aged 65 to 75 who have smoked at some point in their lives. This screening may also be advised for some men in the same age group who have never smoked, especially if they have a family history of abdominal aortic aneurysms [2].

Smoking is one of the most significant risk factors associated with AAA, accounting for approximately 75% of all cases [3]. Other risk factors include high blood pressure, high cholesterol, atherosclerosis, and genetic factors [2].

How is the one-time screening performed?

The screening is performed using an abdominal ultrasound. This procedure is painless and non-invasive, utilizing sound waves to create images of internal organs, including the aorta. The patient lies on an examination table, and a radiology technician applies a special gel to the abdomen before passing a small device (transducer) over the skin. The resulting images show the size of the aorta and help detect any expansion [2].

This screening is fast and effective at identifying the presence and size of an AAA, allowing doctors to develop an appropriate treatment plan if an aneurysm is detected. To learn more about abdominal aortic aneurysms, you can visit Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm: The Importance of Early Screening and Rupture Prevention (Arabic).

What happens if an aneurysm is detected?

If the one-time screening shows the presence of an abdominal aortic aneurysm, the next steps depend on the size of the aneurysm. For small aneurysms that do not cause symptoms, surgery is rarely performed immediately. Instead, a doctor will monitor the size of the aneurysm regularly using ultrasound scans over months or years to track any growth [2].

Surgery is usually performed if the aneurysm exceeds 5 centimeters (about 2 inches) in size or if it is growing rapidly. The goal of surgery is to repair the aneurysm before serious complications, such as rupture, occur. There are two main types of surgery: open repair, where the damaged portion of the aorta is replaced with a synthetic graft, and endovascular stent repair, which is a less invasive procedure that may allow for faster recovery [2].

When should emergency help be sought?

Although an abdominal aortic aneurysm is often asymptomatic, its rupture is a medical emergency that requires immediate attention. If you experience sudden, severe, and persistent pain in the abdomen or back, which may radiate to the groin, buttocks, or legs, or if you feel faint, have cold and clammy skin, feel dizzy, experience nausea and vomiting, notice a rapid heartbeat, or show signs of shock, you must go to the emergency room immediately or call local emergency services [2]. These symptoms may indicate a ruptured abdominal aortic aneurysm, which is a life-threatening condition.

Medical references

• Aortic Aneurysm
• Abdominal aortic aneurysm
• About Aortic Aneurysm