Abstract
Formation and growth of abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAA) may lead to rupture resulting
in life threatening haemorrhage. Elective treatment of asymptomatic AAA, either as open
surgery or endovascular repair, is recommended when the maximum diameter of the
aneurysm exceeds 50-55mm or increases rapidly (Brewster et al., 2003), whereas smaller
aneurysms are recommended kept under surveillance. Risk factor modification, such as
cessation of smoking, treatment of hypertension and pharmaceutical inhibition of
inflammation and protease, could reduce growth in aneurysms kept under surveillance
(Baxter et al., 2008; Chaikof et al., 2009; Moll et al., 2011).
The size and growth of the aneurysm is monitored using different radiological imaging
modalities. Imaging is also important during image guided endovascular repair, and in
follow-up examinations after treatment. In this chapter, we describe how ultrasound is
currently used in management of abdominal aortic aneurysm, and discuss future potential
and challenges of ultrasound for assisting in improved clinical management with regard to
patient selection, treatment alternatives and follow-up.
in life threatening haemorrhage. Elective treatment of asymptomatic AAA, either as open
surgery or endovascular repair, is recommended when the maximum diameter of the
aneurysm exceeds 50-55mm or increases rapidly (Brewster et al., 2003), whereas smaller
aneurysms are recommended kept under surveillance. Risk factor modification, such as
cessation of smoking, treatment of hypertension and pharmaceutical inhibition of
inflammation and protease, could reduce growth in aneurysms kept under surveillance
(Baxter et al., 2008; Chaikof et al., 2009; Moll et al., 2011).
The size and growth of the aneurysm is monitored using different radiological imaging
modalities. Imaging is also important during image guided endovascular repair, and in
follow-up examinations after treatment. In this chapter, we describe how ultrasound is
currently used in management of abdominal aortic aneurysm, and discuss future potential
and challenges of ultrasound for assisting in improved clinical management with regard to
patient selection, treatment alternatives and follow-up.