Abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAA)

Need to know

• What are the symptoms of an aneurysm? icon plus

  In most cases, there are no obvious symptoms and, of course, it often depends where in the body the aneurysm is located.
  
  If you have an abdominal aneurysm that becomes large, you may experience a pulsating (vibrating) feeling in your abdomen (tummy) or back pain.
  
  If an aneurysm ruptures, it causes internal bleeding and is life threatening. You or someone should call 999 if you experience sudden severe pain, feel cold, sweaty, faint and breathless or lose consciousness.

• How is an abdominal aortic aneurysm diagnosed? icon plus

  Aneurysms are often diagnosed by GPs or consultants during physical examinations. They may feel a pulsating bulge in your abdomen that indicates an abdominal aortic aneurysm.
  
  Your GP or consultant will review your medical and family history and do some tests which might include:

  • Ultrasound scan
  • CT scan
  • MRI scan
  • X-ray

• Potential treatment options icon plus

  Your consultant will discuss the best treatment for you. This will depend on what kind of aneurysm you have.
  
  Your consultant may recommend surgery to stop it getting bigger or rupturing (bursting).
  
  There are two treatment options available:

  • Open surgery. Using a scalpel, a cut is made in your skin and the damaged part of the aorta (blood vessel) is removed and replaced with a graft (tube). 
  • Endovascular surgery (type of keyhole surgery). This involves a graft (stent) being inserted into your blood vessel through small cuts made in your skin and placed inside the aneurysm.