Diseases of the Abdominal Aorta – Prevention and Early Diagnosis at Euromedica

The aorta is the main blood vessel that starts from the heart, passes through the sternum, and supplies blood to the abdomen, pelvis, and legs. Among all aortic diseases, the most common and potentially life-threatening condition is the abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA), defined as a localized dilation of more than 50% of the normal vessel diameter (approximately 2 centimeters).

Factors that can increase the risk of developing an aneurysm include age (men over 65 years, women over 55 years), smoking, hypertension, male gender, and genetic factors (heredity).

Aneurysms usually develop slowly and without symptoms; however, they can sometimes expand rapidly or rupture. Symptoms of rupture include abdominal or back pain, possibly accompanied by fainting, tachycardia, sweating, nausea, and vomiting. Elective repair of an abdominal aortic aneurysm is indicated when the maximum diameter exceeds 55 millimeters.

Prevention and early diagnosis of abdominal aortic aneurysm rely on the clinical examination by a Vascular Surgeon and a series of imaging studies determined by the specialist based on clinical findings and the patient’s overall condition.
The results of these tests play a crucial role in further disease management.

Below are the imaging tests commonly used for the detection and evaluation of aneurysm size:

• Color Doppler Ultrasound of the Abdominal Aorta (Triplex):
  A non-invasive, painless, and highly sensitive diagnostic test that contributes both to the diagnosis and follow-up of known abdominal aortic aneurysms.
• Computed Tomography Angiography (CTA):
  This examination provides the highest diagnostic accuracy in detecting an abdominal aortic aneurysm and is considered the gold standard. It requires intravenous contrast administration and the use of radiation. CTA provides valuable anatomical and morphological information essential for monitoring, planning, and managing the aneurysm.
• Magnetic Resonance Angiography (MRA):
  Although not considered the first-line examination for aneurysmal disease, MRA offers high diagnostic value for many vascular pathologies. Its main advantages are that no radiation is used and no nephrotoxic contrast agent is required, which makes it especially useful for patients with chronic kidney disease.

All of the above examinations are performed daily at the Euromedica Diagnostic Center in Alexandroupoli, as well as in other Euromedica diagnostic centers.
The advanced technology and the highly specialized medical and paramedical staff of the Euromedica Group ensure the delivery of high-quality services, setting new standards in the diagnosis and treatment of abdominal aortic diseases.

When the aneurysm diameter exceeds 55 mm, the two main treatment options are either open surgical repair or endovascular aneurysm repair (EVAR).
The final decision on the most suitable method for each patient is made by the specialist vascular surgeon, following detailed discussion about the advantages and disadvantages of each approach.
Today, the outcomes of planned aneurysm repair procedures are excellent.

Our primary goal is to raise awareness among physicians, patients, and the general public about aortic diseases and emphasize the importance of early diagnosis and treatment, in order to save lives.

Authors: Dr. Georgios S. Georgiadis, Professor of Vascular Surgery at the Democritus University of Thrace, Director of the University Vascular Surgery Department at the University General Hospital of Alexandroupolis, Scientific Associate of Euromedica Alexandroupoli, and Dr. Christos M. Argyriou, Assistant Professor of Vascular Surgery at the Democritus University of Thrace, Scientific Associate of Euromedica Alexandroupoli.