Aneurysmal diseases

Abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) is a pathology commonly observed in older adults with an estimated incidence of around 5% of men older than 65 years. The precise aetiology of this disease is still not fully uncovered; most aneurysms are classified as degenerative with complex interaction between genetic predisposition and environmental factors. Most AAA remain asymptomatic until they rupture. At this stage, they have a 90% mortality rate. Screening programmes are the best method to detect AAA and thus treating them electively. Open repair was once the gold standard of treatment, as no medical treatment has proven a clear benefit in reducing or stopping AAA growth. Recently endovascular repair; a new less invasive approach; has emerged and is rapidly replacing open repair with better mortality and morbidity rates.