Abdominal aortic aneurysm: Rupture of the anterior wall

Abstract

Introduction An aneurysm is a focal dilatation of an artery (aorta), involving an increase in diameter of at least 50% as compared to the expected normal diameter (over 3 cm). Abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAA) cause thousands of deaths every year, many of which can be prevented with timely diagnosis and treatment. AAA can be asymptomatic for many years, but in one third of patients whose aneurysm ruptured, the mortality rate is 90%. In the past, palpation of the abdomen was the preferred method for identifying AAA. However, diagnostic imaging techniques, such as ultrasonography and computed tomography are more accurate and offer opportunities for early detection of AAA. Case report This paper is a case report of an 83-year old female patient. She was admitted due to severe pain in the abdomen. We already knew about the AAA (from her medical history). After using all available diagnostic procedures, rupture or dissection of the AAA were not confirmed. The patient underwent emergency surgery. During the operation, rupture of the anterior wall of the aneurysm was found. The anterior wall was filled with parietal thrombus, which hermetically closed the perforation. The patient was successfully operated and recovered. Conclusion The aim of this case report was to point out that our diagnostic procedures failed to confirm the rupture of AAA. We decided to apply surgical treatment, based on medical experience, clinical findings, ultrasonography and computed tomography and during operation rupture of AAA was confirmed. Patients with an already diagnosed AAA, or patients with clinical picture of rupture or dissection, are in urgent need for surgery, no matter what diagnostic tools are being used.