Treatment for an abdominal aortic aneurysm depends on its size, growth, symptoms, anatomy, and the patient’s overall health. Options may include continued surveillance or aneurysm repair when treatment is indicated.
Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm (AAA) Treatment
An abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) occurs when a weakened area of the abdominal aorta enlarges or bulges. Many AAAs cause no symptoms, but larger or symptomatic aneurysms may require treatment to reduce the risk of rupture.
At Vital Vein & Vascular, evaluation and treatment are tailored to the size, location, anatomy, and individual needs of each patient.
MINIMALLY INVASIVE OPTIONS
EVAR AVAILABLE
PERSONALIZED TREATMENT
Trusted vascular care
TRUSTED VASCULAR CARE
Symptoms for Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm (AAA):
Know the Signs. Act Early.
An abdominal aortic aneurysm is often known as a “silent killer” because it tends to grow without noticeable symptoms. However, when symptoms do appear, they may include:
Persistent back or abdominal pain
Persistent or recurring pain in the abdomen or back may occur with an AAA.
Pulsating sensation near the navel
A pulsating or throbbing sensation in the abdomen may occur in some people with an AAA.
Sudden, severe pain
Sudden, severe abdominal or back pain may indicate a ruptured aneurysm. This is a medical emergency requiring immediate emergency care.
RISK FACTORS & SCREENING
WHO MAY NEED Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Screening?
Age
Men ages 65–75 who have ever smoked are generally recommended to receive a one-time ultrasound screening. Screening decisions for people who have never smoked may depend on individual risk factors.
Family HiSTORY
A first-degree relative, such as a parent or sibling, with an AAA can increase the risk of developing one. Family history may influence decisions about screening.
Highblood pressure
High blood pressure is one of several factors associated with AAA. Managing blood pressure and other cardiovascular risk factors is important for overall vascular health.
WHAT WE TREAT
TREATMENT OPTIONS FOR ABDOMINAL AORTIC ANEURYSM
ENDOVASCULAR ANEURYSM REPAIR
Endovascular aneurysm repair (EVAR) is a minimally invasive procedure that uses a stent graft delivered through the arteries in the groin. The graft is positioned inside the aorta to exclude the aneurysm from blood flow and help reduce the risk of rupture. Whether EVAR is appropriate depends on the patient’s anatomy and overall condition.
GROIN CATHETER ACCESS
STENT GRAFT
MINIMALLY INVASIVE
ANATOMY-DEPENDENT
OPEN SURGICAL REPAIR
Open surgical repair involves an abdominal incision to access the aorta. The weakened section of the aorta is repaired using a synthetic graft that reinforces the affected area and redirects blood flow through the graft.
ABDOMINAL INCISION
SYNTHETIC GRAFT
OPEN REPAIR
LONG-TERM FOLLOW-UP
Meet Your Surgeon
Dr. Christopher yi, MD
Board-Certified Vascular Surgeon · Founder, Vital Vein & Vascular
Dr. Christopher Yi founded Vital Vein & Vascular with a simple belief: patients deserve exceptional vascular care—and a clear understanding of their health.
As a board-certified vascular surgeon, Dr. Yi provides comprehensive care for conditions affecting the arteries and veins, from common circulation and vein concerns to complex vascular disease requiring advanced intervention or surgery. His experience spans both hospital-based vascular surgery and minimally invasive outpatient treatment, allowing him to evaluate each patient with the full range of treatment options in mind.
Dr. Yi believes the best treatment starts with the right diagnosis. He takes the time to explain what is happening, review treatment options clearly, and recommend what is medically appropriate for each patient—even when treatment isn't necessary.
That philosophy is at the heart of Vital Vein & Vascular: advanced vascular expertise, thoughtful treatment, and care patients can trust.
Board Certified
Vascular Surgery
Fellowship
Trained
California
Medical License
Member
SVS
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What is an Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm?
An Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm (AAA) is a condition where the aorta, the body’s main artery, develops a bulge or swelling in its wall, specifically in the abdominal region. This bulge results from a weakening of the arterial wall and can grow over time, posing serious risks if not monitored and treated promptly.
Can you feel an Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm?
In many cases, an AAA does not present any noticeable symptoms until it is quite large or has ruptured. When symptoms do occur, you might feel a pulsating sensation in the abdomen or lower back pain. If the aneurysm is large, you may notice a throbbing near the navel.
How common are Abdominal Aortic Aneurysms?
AAAs are relatively common, especially among older adults. The incidence increases with age, and men are more likely to develop AAAs than women. It is estimated that around 1 in 10 men over the age of 65 have an AAA.
Is Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm hereditary?
Yes, AAA can be hereditary. If you have a family history of aneurysms or related conditions, your risk of developing an AAA is higher. Genetic factors and inherited connective tissue disorders can also contribute to the development of an AAA.
What type of doctor treats Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm?
A vascular surgeon or a cardiothoracic surgeon typically treats abdominal aortic aneurysms. These specialists are trained in managing conditions related to blood vessels and the heart and are skilled in performing both minimally invasive and open surgical procedures to treat AAAs.
What is Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm screening?
Screening for AAA typically involves an abdominal ultrasound, which is a non-invasive imaging technique that can detect the presence of an aneurysm and measure its size. Regular screening is recommended for individuals at higher risk, such as older adults and those with a family history of AAA.
How long does abdominal aortic aneurysm surgery take?
The duration of AAA surgery varies depending on the procedure. An Endovascular Aneurysm Repair (EVAR) usually takes about 1 to 2 hours, while an open surgical repair can take 3 to 4 hours. The length of the surgery depends on factors such as the size and location of the aneurysm and the patient’s overall health.