An aneurysm is a pathological, multilayered dilation of a blood vessel that often occurs in arteries. It most frequently affects the main artery (aorta) in the abdominal cavity in the chest or the popliteal artery.
The treatment of an aneurysm depends on its size and location. Smaller aneurysms that do not cause any symptoms must be monitored regularly, as it has been shown that the benefit of treatment far outweighs the risk once the aneurysm reaches a certain diameter. However, larger aneurysms or those with an increased risk of rupture require rapid and targeted treatment. The European Society of Vascular Surgery recommends treatment within 8 weeks of diagnosis.
Obliterative changes (constrictions – stenoses – and occlusions) and dilatative changes (bulging – aneurysms) in the arteries can be successfully treated using catheter methods or surgical procedures, depending on the localisation. Balloon dilatation with or without a stent is often used for constrictions, while a stent graft – a metal scaffold with a blood-impermeable membrane – is used for aneurysms. Alternatively, surgical treatment using bypass methods may also be necessary, in which the damaged section of the vessel is replaced or bypassed.
The development of aneurysms is favoured by several different factors. They are often caused by atherosclerosis, i.e. the calcification and hardening of the arteries. High blood pressure, smoking and hereditary factors – aneurysms in the family – increase the risk of developing an aneurysm.
Aneurysms often go unnoticed for a long time as they grow very slowly and do not cause any symptoms. In some cases, however, pain may occur in the affected area, for example in the abdomen or back. A sudden, severe pain can be an indication of a symptomatic or burst aneurysm, which is an emergency.
Healthy lifestyle habits such as a balanced diet, regular exercise and refraining from smoking and controlling blood pressure help to reduce the risk of aneurysm formation and progression. Regular check-ups are particularly important if there is a family history of aneurysms.
Stent graft for aortic aneurysms and penetrating aortic ulcers (PAU)
Fenestrated (fenestrated) or branched (branched) aortic prostheses (mostly customised prostheses with a waiting period of several weeks) for thoracoabdominal and juxtarenal aneurysms
Open aortic replacement for aneurysms and with or without reconstruction of visceral arteries
