A CT-scan of an abdominal aortic aneurysm

Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm ( AAA) is a dilatation of the abdomal aorta, where the diameter is at least 29 mm (the normal aortic diameter is about 20 mm). The main etiology is arteriosclerosis due to smoking and this disease is more frequent in men, especially over the age of 65.

A sagittal view of an aneurysm seen in abdominal ultrasound

A transverse view of an aneurysm seen in abdominal ultrasound

AAA does not usually cause any symptoms until is is complicated by a lifethreatning rupture. Surgical treatment (replacement of the dilated part of the aorta by a prosthesis) is the treatment of choice. and surgical treatment is considered indicated when the diameter of the aorta is 50 mm or more.

A CT-scan of an abdominal aortic aneurysm, seen in the middle of the picture, and containing a thrombotic mass lining the aortic wall and calcifications in the wall. Below the aneurysm is the spine and laterally the kidneys are visible.