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Updated: May 7, 2026
07:12
An Approach to Point-Of-Care Ultrasound Evaluation of the Abdominal Aorta
Published on: September 8, 2023
[Screening for abdominal aortic aneurysms has a positive clinical effect].
Jes S Lindholt1, Anders Green, Rikke Søgaard
1Hjerte-, Lunge- og Karkirurgisk Afdeling T, Odense Universitetshospital, Sdr. Boulevard 29, 5000 Odense C. jes.s.lindholt@viborg.rm.dk
Ugeskrift for Laeger
|September 19, 2013
Summary
Screening for abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAA) in 65-year-old men is highly cost-effective. This intervention significantly reduces AAA mortality and overall mortality, proving beneficial for public health.
Area of Science:
- Vascular Surgery
- Public Health Screening
- Health Economics
Background:
- Abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAA) cause significant mortality in older men, with a 75% lethality rate for ruptures.
- Preventive surgery for AAA carries a 2-3% risk.
- Current screening practices and their economic impact require evaluation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the cost-effectiveness of ultrasonographic screening for abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAA) in 65-year-old Danish men.
- To assess the impact of AAA screening on mortality rates.
Main Methods:
- Utilized data from randomized trials on ultrasonographic screening for AAA.
- Incorporated health economic analysis to determine cost-effectiveness.
- Compared screening costs and benefits against established healthcare programs.
Main Results:
- Ultrasonographic screening for AAA is fast, safe, and reliable.
- Screening trials demonstrate a 50% reduction in AAA mortality and a 2% decrease in total mortality.
- The cost per quality-adjusted life year gained is approximately 5,100 DKK, significantly lower than other national screening programs.
Conclusions:
- Screening 65-year-old Danish men for AAA is a highly cost-effective public health strategy.
- The established benefits of AAA screening justify its implementation in national health programs.
- AAA screening offers a favorable return on investment compared to other population-wide health interventions.
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