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Orlando Vascular Surgery — Vascular Surgery & Vein Care Center

Experienced Vascular Specialists · Covered by Medicare & Most Major Insurance · In-Office Outpatient Procedures

Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm

An Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm (AAA) is a dangerous weakening and bulging in the wall of the aorta—the primary blood vessel supplying blood from the heart to the abdomen and lower body. Because an enlarging aneurysm carries a risk of life-threatening rupture, timely vascular diagnosis, monitoring, and surgical repair are critical.

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What Causes an Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm?

  • Atherosclerosis: Hardening of the arteries caused by fatty plaque accumulation on vessel walls.
  • Hypertension: Chronic high blood pressure weakening the structural integrity of the aortic wall.
  • Smoking: A leading risk factor that damages blood vessel structure and accelerates aneurysm growth.
  • Genetics: Family history of aortic aneurysms or connective tissue disorders (e.g., Marfan syndrome).
  • Vascular Inflammation: Chronic arterial inflammation and age-related vascular degradation.

What Are the Symptoms of an Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm?

  • Often completely asymptomatic ("silent") in early stages
  • A distinct pulsating or throbbing feeling near the navel
  • Deep, constant ache in the abdomen, lower back, or side
  • Sudden, severe abdominal or back pain (a signal of rapid enlargement or impending rupture)

How Can an Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Be Prevented?

  • Stop all tobacco use immediately.
  • Maintain strict control over blood pressure and cholesterol levels.
  • Schedule routine ultrasound screenings if you are a male aged 65-75 with a history of smoking.
  • Adopt a heart-healthy, low-fat nutrition plan.

What Are the Treatments for an Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm?

  • Watchful Waiting & Ultrasound Surveillance: Regular diagnostic ultrasound imaging for small, low-risk aneurysms.
  • Endovascular Aneurysm Repair (EVAR): A minimally invasive catheter procedure that places a stent graft inside the aorta to reinforce weak walls.
  • Open Surgical Aortic Repair: Traditional open surgery to replace the weakened segment of the aorta with a durable synthetic graft.

Schedule a vascular screening at Vascular Surgery & Vein Care Center in Orlando, Florida, to monitor aortic health.

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Most treatments are covered by Medicare and major insurance plans.