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Aortic blisters: diagnosis and evolution
M Porcellini1, L Selvetella, L Del Viscovo
1Department of Vascular Surgery, Federico II University, Naples, Italy.
International Surgery
|April 1, 1997
Summary
Abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) blisters are rare but can rupture. MRI angiography is the most accurate diagnostic tool, and surgical repair is crucial for preventing rupture.
Area of Science:
- Vascular Surgery
- Diagnostic Imaging
- Aortic Aneurysm Research
Background:
- Blisters on the abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) wall are uncommon findings.
- Their incidence, diagnostic accuracy, and clinical significance require further elucidation.
- Understanding these lesions is crucial for effective AAA management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the incidence of blisters on the AAA wall.
- To assess the diagnostic accuracy of various imaging modalities for detecting these blisters.
- To determine the clinical significance and optimal management of AAA blisters.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of 14 patients with AAA blisters identified between 1983 and 1995.
- Analysis of diagnostic accuracy for aortography, CT scan, and MRI angiography in detecting blisters.
- Intraoperative findings and clinical outcomes were recorded.
Main Results:
- 14 patients (2.6%) with AAA blisters were identified.
- MRI angiography demonstrated the highest accuracy (85.7%) in detecting blisters, followed by CT scan (27.2%) and aortography (20%).
- One patient experienced a contained rupture of a blister, highlighting the risk of this complication.
Conclusions:
- AAA blisters are rare but potentially life-threatening lesions.
- MRI angiography is the preferred imaging modality for accurate detection.
- Surgical repair of aneurysms with blisters is recommended to prevent rupture.