Related Experiment Video
Updated: Mar 27, 2026
09:32
Manufacturing Abdominal Aorta Hydrogel Tissue-Mimicking Phantoms for Ultrasound Elastography Validation
Published on: September 19, 2018
16.5K
Abdominal aortic aneurysms in women
Ruby C Lo1, Marc L Schermerhorn1
1Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, Mass.
Journal of Vascular Surgery
|January 10, 2016
Summary
Abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAAs) affect men more often, but women experience more aggressive disease progression and higher mortality. Current treatment strategies need re-evaluation for female patients.
Area of Science:
- Vascular Surgery
- Cardiovascular Medicine
- Medical Research
Background:
- Abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) predominantly affects males, with significant sex-based differences in its epidemiology, pathophysiology, and clinical outcomes.
- Estrogen's immunomodulating effects offer some protection against AAA formation in women, but AAAs in women tend to expand more rapidly and rupture at smaller diameters.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the current understanding of gender's impact on AAA presentation, treatment, and outcomes.
- To discuss controversies surrounding screening recommendations and repair thresholds for AAAs in women.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies examining sex differences in abdominal aortic aneurysms.
- Synthesis of data on AAA pathophysiology, epidemiology, treatment, and outcomes stratified by sex.
Main Results:
- Women with AAAs exhibit more aggressive disease, including faster expansion and higher rupture rates at smaller diameters.
- Endovascular AAA repair in women is associated with higher morbidity and mortality compared to men, making repair at smaller diameters a complex issue.
Conclusions:
- Gender significantly influences AAA natural history and treatment outcomes, necessitating tailored clinical approaches.
- Further research is needed to optimize screening and repair strategies for abdominal aortic aneurysms in women.
Related Concept Videos
01:21Aneurysm II: Clinical Manifestations and Diagnostic Studies
512
Thoracic, aortic arch and abdominal aneurysms are significant vascular conditions that can present with various clinical manifestations and lead to serious complications. Understanding these manifestations and the appropriate diagnostic studies is essential for effective management and treatment.Thoracic Aortic AneurysmsThoracic aortic aneurysms often remain asymptomatic until they reach a size that impinges on adjacent structures. They typically cause deep, diffuse chest pain that radiates to...
512
01:26Aneurysm III: Interprofessional Care
447
Aneurysm management involves either conservative medical therapy or surgical intervention, depending on the size and symptoms of the aneurysm. Conservative management is generally reserved for smaller, asymptomatic aneurysms, while larger or symptomatic aneurysms often necessitate surgical repair.Conservative Medical TherapyFor small, asymptomatic aneurysms, particularly abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAA) less than 5.5 centimeters in diameter, conservative medical therapy is recommended. This...
447
01:30Aneurysm I: Introduction
605
An aortic aneurysm is a localized outpouching or dilation at a weak point in the artery wall. It may involve different parts of the aorta, such as the abdominal aorta, aortic arch, or thoracic aorta.Etiological factorsSeveral disorders are associated with aortic aneurysms.Congenital causes, such as primary connective tissue disorders like Marfan syndrome, impact the integrity and strength of connective tissues, notably affecting the aorta. Marfan syndrome is a genetic disorder that specifically...
605
01:22Aneurysm IV: Nursing Management
579
Vigilant monitoring for aneurysm rupture is essential for patients undergoing aortic surgery.Preoperative Nursing ManagementContinuously monitor the patient for manifestations of aneurysm rupture, such as pallor, weakness, tachycardia, hypotension, abdominal, back, groin, or periumbilical pain, changes in consciousness, and a pulsating abdominal mass. Regularly assess the patient's peripheral pulses.Instruct the patient to consume a clear liquid diet the day before surgery and administer...
579
01:25Abdominal Aorta
3.1K
Once the aorta traverses the diaphragmatic plane at the aortic hiatus, it is known as the abdominal aorta. This anatomical structure is positioned leftward of the spinal column, encased within a cocoon of adipose tissue behind the peritoneal cavity. It terminates at the L4 vertebra, where it splits into the common iliac arteries. Prior to this bifurcation, the abdominal aorta gives rise to several vital branches.
The celiac trunk, a singular artery, divides into the left gastric artery, which...
The celiac trunk, a singular artery, divides into the left gastric artery, which...
3.1K
01:25Aortic Regurgitation III: Medical Management
548
Aortic regurgitation (AR) is when the aortic valve does not close or seal properly, leading to backward blood circulation from the aorta into the left ventricle during diastole. Common causes of AR include rheumatic heart disease, congenital valve defects, and aortic root dilation. Managing AR requires a multifaceted approach to alleviate symptoms, preserve left ventricular function, and address the underlying cause of the regurgitation. Patients with symptomatic AR or significant left...
548