Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm: Understanding a Silent Killer

Dr. Eduardo Rodríguez Zoppi, chief of vascular and endovascular surgery at Memorial Cardiac & Vascular Institute, part of Memorial Healthcare System of South Floridastresses the importance of recognizing the signs and symptoms of AAA. These include abdominal pain, lower back discomfort, and an abnormal pulse in the abdomen. Often, AAA can be asymptomatic until a rupture occurs, emphasizing the need for early detection. The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recommends that men ages 60 to 75 with a history of smoking get screened for AAA, even if they have no symptoms.

“The abdominal aortic aneurysm is a vascular time bomb that can explode without warning,” warns Dr. Rodríguez Zoppi. “Early detection is our best defense, and education about risks and symptoms is crucial to saving lives.”

There are two main treatment options for AAAs: endovascular repair and open surgery. Endovascular repair is a minimally invasive approach that involves inserting a catheter through an artery in the groin into the aorta, where a wire mesh graft is placed to reinforce the weakened wall, preventing the aneurysm from rupturing. Patients can go home as early as the day after surgery. Open surgery, on the other hand, involves removing the damaged section of the aorta and replacing it with a graft secured with stitches. Full recovery can take several weeks.

Memorial Cardiac & Vascular Institute offers a dedicated aortic aneurysm center that treats a wide range of aneurysm-related cases, including complex ruptures and dissections. Speaking about patients treated for AAA, Dr. Rodríguez Zoppi said, “Patients who trust us with their AAA care demonstrate remarkable courage and resilience. We find inspiration in their strength, pushing us to give them hope and improve their lives. quality of life thanks to the treatment options we can offer.

About Memorial Healthcare System
HollywoodWashington-based Memorial Healthcare System is a national leader in quality care and patient, physician and employee satisfaction. Its commitment to deeper care and smarter health emphasizes a person-centered approach that has produced safe, positive outcomes for more than 70 years.

Featuring multidisciplinary collaboration, research, innovation and transparency across its many locations, Memorial is focused on removing barriers, increasing access and providing equitable care across the region. It employs more than 17,000 people and operates six hospitals, numerous primary, emergency and 24/7 care facilities, medical office buildings, a specialty health centre and a retirement home.
To learn more, visit mhs.net and connect on Facebook, XInstagram, YouTube and LinkedIn.

Media Contact

Adam Jack WhitesideMemorial Health System, 954-265-1136, (email protected)https://www.mhs.net

SOURCE Memorial Health Care System