prognosis
Last reviewed 05/2022
- natural history of small AAA is gradual expansion at an annual rate of approximately 10% of the initial arterial diameter (1)
- surgical repair doubles the survival time compared to an untreated aneurysm.
- operative mortality for an elective repair is less than 5%, and often, 1 to 2%
- operative mortality for an emergent repair varies from 20-80% depending on the condition of the patient at presentation. Highest mortality occurs in those who present with cardiovascular collapse.
Reference:
- (1) British Heart Foundation (Factfile 2/2008). Abdominal aortic aneurysms.