Treatment for Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm
The aneurysm’s size, which is the primary factor influencing its risk of rupturing, decides the course of treatment. Small aneurysms might not require immediate medical attention. Rather, your healthcare professional will use routine CT (computed tomography) scans or ultrasound examinations to keep an eye on the aneurysm. We refer to this strategy as surveillance. Greater aneurysms might require surgery.
When the AAA measures less than 5.5 centimeters (in cases where the person was assigned male at birth) or less than 5.0 centimeters (in cases where the person was assigned female at birth), surveillance is usually warranted. Furthermore, no symptoms should be brought on by the aneurysm.
Frequently scheduled CT or ultrasound scans, depending on the extent of the aneurysm, will be performed on you. Larger aneurysms require imaging more often. If you’re on the verge of receiving therapy, CT scans rather than ultrasounds might be performed. Make sure you adhere to your provider’s recommendations regarding the schedule for your imaging tests. Also, your doctor will discuss with you on:
- What lifestyle changes to make
- Medications to take