Operative results and death predictors for nonruptured abdominal aortic aneurysms in the elderly

Elective repair of abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAA) in the elderly has conventionally been associated with higher mortality rates than in younger patients, although some authors do not agree with this view. The aim of this study is to look into current results of surgical treatment in elderly patients with nonruptured AAA and to define those factors associated with an increased mortality. Over a period of 2 years (1995-1996), 183 patients aged 75 or older were operated on for nonruptured AAA in 21 hospitals. Their medical records were reviewed and those factors that could be related to death were analyzed. Those variables with statistical significance through univariate analysis were entered into a multivariate logistic regression model to predict mortality. The results showed that surgery for nonruptured AAA in the elderly has a greater mortality rate than that in younger patients, but it is not so great as to deny surgical correction to prevent rupture in selected cases, especially if they are unsuitable for endovascular repair. These patients must first undergo thorough cardiac and renal function evaluation. Selective screening must be considered, so earlier detection and treatment in younger patients can be performed.