I.

Introduction

A. Background of the Study

An aneurysm is a localized sac or dilation formed at a weak point in the

wall of the aorta. It may be classified by its shape or form. The most common
forms of aneurysms are saccular or fusiform. A saccular aneurysm projects
from one side of the vessel only. If an entire arterial segment becomes
dilated, a fusiform aneurysm develops. Very small aneurysms due to localized
infection are called mycotic aneurysms.

Historically, the cause of abdominal aortic aneurysm, the most

common type of degenerative aneurysm, has been attributed to
atherosclerotic changes in the aorta.

The condition, which is more common among Caucasians, affects men

four times more often than women and is most prevalent in elderly patients
(Rutherford, 1999). Most of these aneurysms occur below the renal arteries
(infrarenal aneurysms). Untreated, the eventual outcome may be rupture and
death.

Abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAA) are often silent if they are less than
4 cm. Most people do not even know that they have an AAA. Men older than
age 50 are at the highest risk of death from an AAA. The incidence of AAA
increases with age.