Disease

DEFINITION : Loss of the parallelism of the aortic walls (due to a dilatation, swelling..)

THE DISEASE

The aneurysm of the aorta is a disease of the arterial wall, leading to a progressive increase in the diameter of the artery and a weakening of the wall.

The average increase in diameter of an aneurysm is estimated to be 10% per year. The greater concern is the risk of rupture (80% mortality rate), which is why a surgical treatment is necessary when the diameter exceeds 5 centimeters.

ETIOLOGY

Age : occurs essentially after 60 years old

Atherosclerosis : Up to the early 80s, it was thought that aneurysms were essentially linked to atherosclerosis and the risk factors attached to it, such as tobacco, hypertension, cholesterol…

Genetics : Recent data have shown that there may be genetic factors contributing to this disease. However, despite the hereditary tendencies, the exact genetic marker has not been localized yet.

CLINICALLY

As aortic aneurysms most often are asymptomatic, the diagnosis can be done :

-Accidentally, during a clinical examination of the abdomen or a radiological exam (Doppler, scanner) performed for some other reason.

-In case of an arteritis of the lower limbs or in people who are at risk of such a disease, a check-up can reveal an aneurysm. 

-In case of a severe complication such as an embolism, or a rupture.

EXAMINATIONS

A morphological exam of the aneurysm with a CTA (angiography) always precedes the procedure. Furthermore, the consultation with the anesthesiologist will make sure that no additional cardiac or respiratory exams are needed before the procedure.