Asymptomatic rupture of an aortoiliac aneurysm

The rupture of an abdominal aortic aneurysm is one of the most feared complications confronted by cardiovascular surgeons. Such ruptures are usually catastrophic, but in some instances the rupture is posterior and remains sealed. These chronic ruptures may manifest with any of a variety of clinical presentations. This report describes an uncommon presentation of a chronic rupture of an aortoiliac aneurysm in a patient with generalized aneurysmal disease. The rupture presented as an asymptomatic giant pulsatile mass in the patient's abdomen. The mass had developed over a period of several years. The literature is also reviewed.