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Manufacturing Abdominal Aorta Hydrogel Tissue-Mimicking Phantoms for Ultrasound Elastography Validation
Published on: September 19, 2018
Screening for abdominal aortic aneurysm in a geographically isolated area
J L Duncan1, B Wolf, D M Nichols
1Department of Surgery, Raigmore Hospital, Inverness, UK. john.duncan@haht.scot.nhs.uk
The British Journal of Surgery
|July 22, 2005
Summary
Abdominal aortic aneurysm screening in remote UK areas is effective, with high attendance and good clinical outcomes. The program costs are comparable to urban settings, demonstrating its feasibility.
Area of Science:
- Vascular Surgery
- Public Health Screening
- Health Economics
Background:
- Abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) screening can reduce mortality, but its effectiveness in diverse UK settings is debated.
- This study investigates AAA screening feasibility and outcomes in a remote, rural UK population.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the uptake, clinical results, and cost-effectiveness of AAA screening in a remote and rural UK setting.
- To determine if AAA screening programs are applicable and viable outside of densely populated areas.
Main Methods:
- Community-based ultrasonography screening offered to men aged 65-74 over three years.
- Follow-up protocols for identified aneurysms included regular scans or surgical assessment.
- Calculation of screening and overall program costs per invitation.
Main Results:
- High screening uptake (89.6%) achieved in the target population of 9323 men.
- Abnormal scans identified 5.1% with aneurysms; 54 men underwent elective repair with a 2% mortality rate.
- The overall program cost was £58 per invitation, comparable to urban screening initiatives.
Conclusions:
- AAA screening is feasible in remote and rural areas, achieving high patient uptake.
- Clinical outcomes and cost-effectiveness are acceptable, supporting broader implementation.
- Screening programs can be successfully adapted to diverse geographical settings within the UK.
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