Aneurysms
An aneurysm is a balloon-like bulge of an artery, most often the aorta, caused by the localised weakness of the aortic wall. In its early stages the aneurysmal dilatation may not pose an immediate health risk. Small aneurysms, less than 5 cm in diameter, can be followed by regular ultrasound scans.
If the aneurysm continues to grow over a period of years, it could burst, resulting in massive internal bleeding. Abdominal aortic aneurysms in most cases remain symptom free until they reach the size when rupture is imminent.
Aortic aneurysms can be treated by open surgical repair or by the less invasive endovascular repair.