Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm
Providing critical blood supply to the abdomen, pelvis and legs, the aorta is the main conduit for oxygenated blood. Yet, when the aorta becomes large or begins to balloon out in the abdominal region, the result is an abdominal aortic aneurysm (also called stomach aneurysm). While the causes of aneurysms are not clear, researchers note that they occur due to damage or weakening of the aortic wall. Even so, factors such as smoking, hypertension and even genetics, are believed to put individuals more at risk for developing an aneurysm.
Contrary to what many assume, aneurysms are not always a death sentence. For instance, some aneurysms develop slowly over the course of many years, and they do not present any symptoms. On the other hand, if the aneurysm expands quickly, the chances of it tearing open or leaking blood within the vessel wall increases. When this happens, individuals may experience the following:
- Pain in the abdominal region and/or back that may spread to the groin, buttocks and legs. Pain may be sudden and constant.
- Fainting or passing out
- Nausea and vomiting
- Dizziness
- Clammy skin
- Racing heart
Without question, when an aneurysm breaks open or tears, it can be life threatening.
If you or someone you love is experiencing pain in the abdomen or back that does not go away, it’s important to seek immediate medical care. In the event that you have an abdominal aortic aneurysm, it’s wise to seek a trusted physician with extensive experience in vascular treatment and surgery. Dr. Alan Benvenisty brings a conscientious, patient-centered approach to those suffering from abdominal aortic aneurysms (stomach aneurysms). With a conservative perspective, Dr. Benvenisty understands that surgery is not always the best option, nor is it always necessary. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Benvenisty, contact his office on Amsterdam Avenue in New York City today.
Treatment Options for Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm
When it comes to treatment of abdominal aortic aneurysms, there are several factors to consider. For instance, if there is bleeding from the aneurysm, if it is a particular size or if the aneurysm appears to be growing, immediate intervention is necessary. Traditionally, two types of surgery may be performed. An open repair involves replacing the abdominal vessel with a graft. However, a less invasive approach is an endovascular stent graft, which does not require a large incision. Generally, for patients that are older or who have other medical conditions, the endovascular stent graft is a safer option with less recovery time.
In cases where the stomach aneurysm is small and the patient is not experiencing any symptoms, surgery is rarely necessary as a first option. Even so, the risk of having surgery versus monitoring the aneurysm must be considered. This is important because in the event that the aneurysm tears, it becomes an emergency. Thus, doctors may opt to move forward with a conservative repair (endovascular stent graft), or doctors may decide to reassess the aneurysm in six months through an ultrasound.
Without question, treatment for an abdominal aortic aneurysm requires extensive knowledge and insight into the behavior of aneurysms, including their size and location, as well as the age of the patient and their health history (past and current). Therefore, there’s not a one-size-fits-all approach to treatment.
With extensive experience in vascular diagnosis and treatment of vascular disease and aortic conditions, Dr. Alan Benvenisty, MD is a highly respected specialist that values a conservative approach when it comes to treatment. Dr. Benvenisty understands that spending ample time with patients is vital to determining the best treatment for their condition. When patients meet with Dr. Benvenisty, they know that every available option will be presented to them. To schedule an appointment, contact Dr. Benvenisty’s New York City office on Amsterdam Avenue today.
