Abdominal Aeortic Aneurysm
We Treat Abdominal Aortic Aneurysms in Kissimmee, FL
Hannum Vascular understands the danger associated with abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAA). Our Kissimmee, FL vascular surgeon knows how to use his expertise to treat the condition and keep his patients healthy. Dr. Scott Hannum is one of the only board-certified vascular surgeons in the area and is more than qualified to treat you. AAA is caused by weak areas in the abdominal region of the aorta, which fill with blood and causes it to bulge (called an aneurysm). If left unaddressed, abdominal aortic aneurysms can weaken and rupture and put you at risk for massive internal bleeding and, in some cases, sudden death. Because the aorta is the largest blood vessel, it is essential to take care of this problem immediately.
Abdominal Aortic Aneurysms Are Easily Treatable Early
Many people do not experience symptoms with this condition because aneurysms grow slowly and rupture suddenly. If you develop symptoms, you can expect pulsating sensations in your abdomen, unexplained and severe lower back pain, chest tenderness, nausea, and constant fullness. If we detect the condition before it ruptures, then treatment is easy. But in most cases, we will have to perform surgery. Some of the risk factors for developing an abdominal aortic aneurysm include:
- You are over 60.
- Are you a current or former smoker?
- You have a family history of the disease.
- You have hypertension or high cholesterol.
- You experience poor leg circulation.
- You have had bypass surgery.
How We Treat Abdominal Aortic Aneurysms
The treatments for abdominal aortic aneurysms vary. If we catch it before it ruptures, we can successfully treat it without surgery in 95 percent of cases. We monitor the aneurysm with regular checkups and may prescribe medication to control it. A rupture is different and is a medical emergency. Dr. Hannum will act with extreme urgency in this case. It has ruptured if you experience sudden, incredible pain, an extreme drop in blood pressure, and signs of shock.
If you haven’t already, call 911 immediately!
What to Expect From a Surgical Procedure
If you have gone to the emergency room for a ruptured aortic aneurysm, Dr. Hannum will perform a surgical procedure to repair the aneurysm and prevent the aorta from bursting and affecting blood flow to the rest of your body. The most common procedure is a graft, which he will explain to you or your loved one. But whether your situation is urgent or we caught it early, you can count on outstanding medical care from our team.