If the aneurysm is small and there are no symptoms (for example, if the aneurysm is found during a routine physical examination), your health care provider may recommend periodic evaluation, usually with annual ultrasound examination, to watch for changes.

Symptomatic aneurysms usually require surgical treatment to prevent complications. Antihypertensive medications may be prescribed before surgery to reduce blood pressure. Other medications may include analgesics to relieve pain.

Surgical repair or replacement of the section of aorta is recommended for patients with symptoms, as they are at high risk of fatal rupture. Repair is also recommended for patients with aneurysms greater than 5 cm in diameter. Stenting is also a treatment option. The goal of treatment is to perform surgery before complications develop.

Stenting involves the use of a tube placed inside the vessel and can be performed without an abdominal incision, with specialized catheters that are introduced through arteries at the groin. Not all patients with abdominal aortic aneurysms are candidates for stenting, however.

The risk of complications increases as the size of the aneurysm increases. Because surgery for abdominal aortic aneurysm is risky, the surgeon may wait for the aneurysm to expand to a certain size before operating (that is, when the risk of complications exceeds the risk of surgery).

The outcome is usually good when an aneurysm is monitored carefully and if surgical repair is performed before the aorta ruptures.

Aortic rupture is life-threatening. Less than 50% of people with a ruptured abdominal aortic aneurysm survive.

• Aortic rupture
• Bleeding from the aorta
• Hypovolemic shock
• Arterial embolism
• Insufficient circulation past the aneurysm
• Irreversible damage to the kidneys (kidney failure)
• Myocardial infarction
• Stroke
• Aortic dissection

Go to the emergency room or call the local emergency number (such as 911) if you develop severe abdominal pain or other symptoms that are suggestive of an abdominal aortic aneurysm.