Abstract:Objective
To discuss the diagnostic methods and management of ruptured abdominal aortic aneurysm(AAA) and to analyse the main factors that influence prognosis.
Methods The clinical data of 15 cases of ruptured infrarenal AAA treated in our hospital from 1998~2004 were retrospectively analysed. The main clinical manifestations were abdominal pain and/or back pain,low blood pressure or shock, and pulsating abdominal mass. 8 cases were diagnosed by DSA and/or sCTA; Doppler ultrasonic examination suggested rupture of abdominal aortic aneurysm in 2 cases; 2 cases had known history of AAA prior to rupture; and 3 cases were diagnosed during operation. All of the patients underwent surgical operation. Successful clamping of the abdominal aorta above the neck of AAA was accomplished in 13 cases. Of these, the aorta was occluded below the diaphragm in 4 cases, and below the renal arteries in 9 cases.
Results Seven cases(46.6%) died in the perioperative period. 2 died of blood loss from aneurysm that ruptured into the free abdominal cavity, 1died of myocardial infarction 5 days postoperatively, 2 died of respiratory failure 3 days and 7 days postoperatively, and 2 died of renal failure 4 days and 8 days after operation. Severe complications did not develop in the remaining patients.
Conclusions Patients who present with the trilogy of abdominal pain and/or back pain, low blood pressure or shock and pulsating abdominal mass can be diagnosed easily. CT and Doppler ultrasonic examination are indicated for patients with questionable diagnosis and have stable vital signs. Operation is effective treatment for ruptured AAA. The crux of the operation is to mack an aortic occlusion proximal to the site of rupture of aorta to effectively control bleeding. Patients with rupture of AAA into the free peritoneal cavity or those with acute myocardial infarction, acute renal failure or respiratory complications had poor prognosis.