Did you know that an Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Singapore (AAA) can be a silent killer? It’s true! Many individuals are unaware they have this condition until a life-threatening rupture occurs. That’s why it’s so important to get screened if you’re at risk. At The Vascular and Interventional Centre, we’re dedicated to providing you with the knowledge and advanced treatment options you need for effective vascular care.

What is an Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm?

An Abdominal aortic aneurysm Singapore is an enlargement or ballooning of the abdominal aorta, a major blood vessel in your abdomen. This vessel extends from the heart, running in front of the spine, and supplies blood to vital abdominal organs. When a section of the aorta’s wall weakens or becomes damaged, it can expand, and if it reaches a critical size, it can rupture, leading to massive blood loss and a high mortality rate.

Risk Factors for AAA

Several factors can increase your risk of developing an AAA:

• Genetics: A family history of AAA increases your risk.
• Gender: Men are more likely to develop an AAA.
• Age: Being over  years old is a significant risk factor.
• Lifestyle: Smoking, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol are modifiable risk factors.

Why Early Detection is Critical

Most AAAs are asymptomatic, meaning they show no signs or indications until a rupture occurs. Unfortunately, survival rates after a rupture are low, often less than %. Therefore, screening is essential, especially for those with risk factors. The Ministry of Health in Singapore recommends that men over 65, particularly smokers or former smokers, undergo an ultrasound screening to detect any underlying AAAs.

Late symptoms of fast-growing AAAs may include severe abdominal or lower back pain and sudden dizziness or fainting. If you experience these symptoms, seek immediate medical attention.

Treatment Options for Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm

If you’re diagnosed with an AAA, several treatment options are available depending on its size, growth rate, and your overall health:

Monitoring

Small, asymptomatic AAAs (less than 5.0 cm in diameter) can be managed with regular monitoring through imaging studies like ultrasound or CT scans, along with blood pressure control, cholesterol management, and smoking cessation.

Surgical Intervention

Surgery is typically recommended for larger AAAs (over 5.0 cm) or those causing pain/discomfort to prevent rupture. There are two primary surgical approaches:

Open Surgical Repair

This traditional method involves a more invasive surgery with significant risks, making it more suitable for younger patients with low surgical risk. Recovery can take one to six weeks and often requires ICU care.

Endovascular Aortic Repair (EVAR)

EVAR is a minimally invasive procedure where a special stent is inserted through small incisions in the groin to reline and support the weakened aorta. It is often preferred for older patients or those with higher surgical risks and can be performed under local anesthesia and mild sedation. Patients usually recover quickly, often being discharged within  hours.

Considerations When Choosing a Treatment

When deciding on the best surgical approach, it’s important to consider several factors:

• The size and location of the aneurysm
• Your overall health and risk factors
• The potential for complications and long-term outcomes

While EVAR is less invasive, studies suggest it may have a higher risk of recurrence (endoleaks) requiring additional procedures. Therefore, it’s crucial to consult with a vascular surgeon experienced in both open and endovascular techniques to make an informed decision.

The Vascular and Interventional Centre: Your Partner in Vascular Health

At The Vascular and Interventional Centre, we understand the complexities of abdominal aortic aneurysm treatment Singapore and are committed to providing personalized, comprehensive care. Our team, led by Dr. Chen Min Qi, is dedicated to utilizing their expertise and state-of-the-art equipment to achieve the best possible outcomes for our patients.

We are accredited by all major insurance companies and can assist you with Medisave and insurance paperwork for a stress-free experience.

Follow-Up Care

After AAA treatment, lifelong regular follow-ups are crucial to monitor for any new developments or complications. These follow-ups typically include regular scans to detect any discrepancies, especially for patients who have undergone EVAR.

Take control of your vascular health! Contact The Vascular and Interventional Centre today to learn more about Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Singapore, screening, and treatment options.