BB: Pulsations of Aorta and Abdominal Aortic Anuerysm

Acute Rupture of an Abdominal Aortic Anuerysm

Acute rupture of an abdominal aortic aneurysm is asso- ciated with severe pain in the abdomen or back. If unrec- ognized, such an aneurysm has a mortality rate of nearly 90% because of heavy blood loss (Swartz, 2009). Surgeons can repair an aneurysm by opening it, inserting a prosthetic graft, and sewing the wall of the aneurysmal aorta over the graft to protect it. Many vascular problems formerly treated with open repair, including aneurysm repair, are now being treated by means of endovascular catheterization proce- dures.

What causes pulsations of the Aorta?

Because the aorta lies posterior to the pancreas and stomach, a tumor of these organs may transmit pul- sations of the aorta that could be mistaken for an abdominal aortic aneurysm, a localized enlargement of the aorta

How do you detect aortic aneurysm?

Deep palpation of the midabdomen can detect an aneurysm, which usually results from a con- genital or acquired weakness of the arterial wall (Fig. B2.37C & D). Pulsations of a large aneurysm can be detected to the left of the midline; the pulsatile mass can be moved easily from side to side. Medical imaging can confirm the diagnosis in doubtful cases.

What happens when the anterior abdominal wall is relaxed?

When the anterior abdominal wall is relaxed, particularly in children and thin adults, the inferior part of the abdominal aorta may be compressed against the body of the L4 vertebra by firm pressure on the anterior abdominal wall, over the umbilicus (Fig. B2.37C & D). This pressure may be applied to control bleeding in the pelvis or lower limbs.