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Abdominal aortic aneurysms: clinical diagnosis and management
1cates@essex1.com
Insights
Chiropractors can screen for aortic aneurysms (AAAs) using readily available diagnostic tools. Early detection through chiropractic screening may reduce deaths from AAA rupture.
Area of Science:
- Vascular Surgery
- Diagnostic Imaging
- Chiropractic Medicine
Background:
- Aortic aneurysms, particularly abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAAs), represent a significant vascular risk.
- Atherosclerosis, genetic factors, and aortic wall biochemical changes contribute to AAA development.
- The classic triad of AAA rupture symptoms is often absent, complicating early diagnosis.
Observation:
- Three cases of aneurysms diagnosed in a chiropractic setting are presented.
- Abdominal aortic aneurysms are frequently asymptomatic and discovered incidentally.
- Chiropractic offices possess accessible tools for AAA diagnosis, including history, palpation, auscultation, and imaging.
Findings:
- Surgical repair is indicated for AAAs exceeding 5 cm in diameter.
- All presented cases achieved successful recovery post-surgical intervention.
- Chiropractic screening can identify potential AAAs.
Implications:
- Chiropractors can implement simple diagnostic procedures for AAA screening.
- Early AAA detection by chiropractors may lead to a reduction in mortality rates.
- Integrating AAA screening into chiropractic practice can enhance patient outcomes.
Objective:
To review the presentation, diagnosis and management of aortic aneurysms. Case reports and a brief topic review are presented.
Clinical Features:
Three cases of aneurysm that were diagnosed in a chiropractic office are discussed. An aneurysm is defined as an abnormal dilation of the aorta as a result of atherosclerosis, genetic predisposition and/or acquired biochemical alterations in the wall of the aorta. The "classic triad," hypotension, back pain and a pulsatile abdominal mass are present in only 50% of those people with ruptured abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAA). Large unruptured aneurysms are quite often asymptomatic and are often found incidentally on physical or X-ray examination. History, palpation, auscultation and imaging are all helpful in diagnosing AAAs, and all are readily available in a chiropractic office.
Intervention And Outcome:
Surgical intervention is generally considered appropriate in AAAs > 5 cm in diameter. All patients recovered after surgical repair of the aneurysm.
Conclusion:
Chiropractors can perform simple diagnostic procedures to differentially diagnosis and screen for AAAs. Such screening measures may yield a statistical decrease in deaths caused by rupture of aortic aneurysms.