Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 10, 2025

Author Spotlight: Using Point-of-Care Ultrasound for Comprehensive Evaluation of the Abdominal Aorta
Published on: September 8, 2023
A Complex Case of Highly Tortuous Abdominal Aorta Complicated with Infrarenal Aortoiliac Aneurysm
Dragan Piljic1, Nail Sehic1, Zijah Rifatbegovic1
1University Clinical Center Tuzla, Cardiovascular Surgery Clinic, Tuzla, Bosnia and Herzegovina.
Background:
Aneurysms, characterized by localized dilatation involving all three layers of the vascular wall, pose significant risks, with abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) being prevalent, particularly among the elderly. However, the cooccurrence of AAA with abdominal tortuous aorta (ATA) remains exceptionally rare.
Case Report:
We present the case of a 63-year-old male with an AAA extending into the iliac arteries, accompanied by ATA. Computed tomography revealed complex structural abnormalities, necessitating immediate surgical intervention. Due to the anatomical complexities, endovascular repair was not feasible, leading to a successful aortobifemoral bypass surgery using the Piljic method. The patient recovered well postoperatively, highlighting the efficacy of the chosen approach.
Conclusion:
While AAA is often treated with endovascular repair, ATA complicates this approach, underscoring the need for open surgery in such cases. Research on aortic tortuosity's role in rupture prediction and stress alleviation shows varied findings, necessitating additional studies. ATA may also hinder vascular catheter insertion, requiring alternative routes for interventions. Future research is imperative to develop tailored treatment strategies for patients with concurrent AAA and ATA, ensuring optimal outcomes.
Related Concept Videos
Abdominal Aorta
The celiac trunk, a singular artery, divides into the left gastric artery, which...
The Aorta
The average diameter of the aorta is approximately 2-3 cm, but the size can vary depending on the section of the aorta and the individual's age, sex, and body size. The aorta is...
Thoracic Aorta

