A systematic review and case presentation: Giant abdominal aortic aneurysm

Abstract

Objective An abdominal aortic aneurysm is considered giant when its transverse diameter is greater than 10–13 cm in diameter. A giant abdominal aortic aneurysm is rare but with a significant risk of rupture if it is not diagnosed or left untreated. Method The authors have performed a systematic review of the evidence that has looked into the clinical presentations, and management methods employed and have presented a 14 cm giant abdominal aortic aneurysm patient. Results The systematic review has been based on level-IV evidence due to the rarity of the condition. The final analysis included 61 relevant reported cases. The mean age was 72.4 years, the male to female ratio was 52: 8, and the average size of a giant abdominal aortic aneurysm was 14.7 cm. These were mostly infra renal (72.58%). Rupture of these aneurysms was found in 23 (37.1%) patients, and was treated by laparotomy in 51 (82.25%) cases. There were 11 (17.74%) mortalities. Conclusion The size of an abdominal aortic aneurysm is known to be the biggest factor in the rupture of an aneurysm. The reason abdominal aortic aneurysms can reach such size without rupturing is unclear but needs further exploring. Early diagnosis with effective screening programmes is essential to diagnose in a timely manner to avoid life-threatening consequences.