Aneurysms

Aneurysms are localized bulges in a blood vessel or chamber of the heart. Aneurysms can occur in almost any blood vessel and can be dangerous if they are large. Common form of aneurysm is that of abdominal aorta, popularly known as AAA (abdominal aortic aneurysm). It is the enlargement of the large blood vessel carrying oxygenated blood to the internal organs and lower limbs. It is seen more often in elderly males, so much so that some countries have a screening program to detect AAA by routine ultrasound screening of people above a certain age, usually 65 years.

Aneurysm in the blood vessels of the brain can rupture and cause a bleed into the brain. Rupture of an aneurysm of a large blood vessel can be catastrophic with very few reaching the hospital alive. Partial ruptures of aneurysms can cause severe pain (leaking aneurysm) which permits medical attention and possible cure by surgery or other methods like implantation of a covered stent. Aneurysm of the chambers of the heart usually occur following a heart attack. A false aneurysm can also occur when a rupture has been sealed off by a covering of the heart or blood vessel. False aneurysms have a high chance for catastrophic secondary rupture and needs prompt medical attention and management.