|
|
The ultrasound images above show an abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA). AAA is defined as an infra-renal Aortic diameter 3 cm or greater. The one year incidence of rupture for an asymptomatic AAA is approximately 10% if the aortic diameter is between 5.5 between and 6.9 cm. This goes up to 33% if the AAA diameter is > 7 cm.(1) This patient has a symptomatic AAA and rupture (or impending rupture) is the most pending question. While ultrasound is sensitive in detecting AAA, it is not sensitive in identifying rupture. The majority of AAA ruptures occur in the retroperitoneum and therefore free intraabdominal fluid is not observed on ultrasound. (1) Lederle FA, Johnson GR, Wilson SE, et al. Rupture rate of large AAAs in patients refusing or unfit for elective repair. JAMA 2002;287:2968-72. Comments? Home Next Case |
Longitudinal |
Longitudinal |