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Abdominal aortic aneurysms: the changing natural history
Journal of Vascular Surgery
|January 1, 1984
Summary
Abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) incidence increased over 30 years, with more ruptures and higher mortality, particularly in larger aneurysms. Early diagnosis is crucial for managing this condition.
Area of Science:
- Vascular Surgery
- Epidemiology
- Public Health
Background:
- Abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAAs) represent a significant vascular health concern.
- Understanding AAA incidence and outcomes is vital for population health strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze the 30-year incidence, diagnosis, and rupture rates of abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAAs) in a defined population.
- To compare population-based AAA data with a referral practice cohort.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of AAA patient records over a 30-year period in a Midwest city.
- Analysis of incidence, patient demographics, diagnosis methods, rupture events, and mortality.
- Comparison with data from a referral population of 616 patients.
Main Results:
- AAA incidence was 21.1/100,000 person-years, with median diagnosis ages of 69 for men and 78 for women.
- 78% of AAAs were incidental findings; 20.3% ruptured, with 15.5% overall mortality.
- AAA incidence and diagnosis of larger aneurysms (≥7 cm) increased over decades, with highest rupture frequency in the last decade.
Conclusions:
- AAA incidence shows an increasing trend, with a rise in larger aneurysms and rupture frequency.
- Population-based data reveal differences in demographics and diagnosis compared to referral practices.
- The findings underscore the need for continued surveillance and improved management strategies for AAAs.