Surgical Treatment of Abdominal Aortic Aneurysms

Abstract

Introduction: Surgical treatment of abdominal aortic aneurysms poses a significant challenge in the field of vascular surgery, with numerous factors influencingoperativetechniqueandsurgicaloutcome. Objective: This study aimed to assess the outcomes of open surgical treatment for patients with abdominal aortic aneurysms at the Vascular Surgery Service of Mother Teresa University Hospital Centre in Tirana, andproviderecommendationsforimprovingoutcomes. Methods: A total of 206 patients who underwent transabdominal and retroperitoneal surgical access between January 2008 and December 2015 were included in the analysis. The study evaluated the incidence of abdominal aortic aneurysms, clinical and imaging findings of the disease (ultrasound, tomographic, and arteriographic), frequency of involvement of the iliac artery in the pathological process, and postoperative complications. Results: Transabdominal access was the most commonly utilized, while retroperitoneal access was deemed the safest. No significant differences in recurrence rates were noted between the two approaches. The findings from this study suggest that surgery is necessary for aneurysms greater than 4.5 cm with clinical symptoms. In contrast, regular monitoring every 3 to 6 months is recommended for aneurysms smaller than 4.5 cm in the absence of clinical symptoms. The study highlights the need for ultrasound screening of the abdomen in patients over the age of 55 years referred to a vascular center with arterial hypertension, diabetes mellitus, or appropriate complaints. Further development of abdominal aortic aneurysm screening for patients over 55 years of age is warranted.