Question: I have been diagnosed with an abdominal aortic aneurysm measuring 4 centimeters. Should I have surgery?
Dr. Hibberd’s Answer:
Although 5 centimeters is often regarded as the point where surgical intervention is recommended for an abdominal aortic aneurysm, each case needs to be considered individually regarding location and anticipated complications from this bulge in the aortic wall. This includes considering whether extension or dissection will affect other branches of blood vessels off the aorta that could increase your risk of death, stroke, paralysis, or bowel or renal ischemia.
Your exercise limitations depend on your co-existing health conditions, the aneurysm location, and your blood pressure control. You need to seek surgical consultation to see if this can be remedied by minimally invasive means instead of by formal open surgical procedure. Do not be afraid to get second and third opinions. You must plan to have this corrected fairly soon if your health is good and especially if you expect to live comfortably 10 years from now.
© 2011 Newsmax. All rights reserved.
