Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm (AAA)

Advanced Aneurysm Detection & Minimally Invasive Treatment

An abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) is a potentially life-threatening condition that often develops silently. At Oracle Heart & Vascular, our experienced team provides expert screening, monitoring and advanced treatment for AAA. We help patients throughout Fredericksburg and the surrounding area protect their lives with personalized care and a proactive approach.

What Is An Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm?

The aorta is the largest artery in the body that carries oxygen-rich blood from the heart to the rest of your body, including the legs and feet. An aneurysm occurs when a portion of a blood vessel weakens and bulges outward. When this happens in the abdominal portion of the aorta, it is called an abdominal aortic aneurysm.

If an abdominal aortic aneurysm grows too large, it can rupture, causing severe and severe internal bleeding. This is a medical emergency that requires immediate action.

Why Does An AAA Happen?

The wall of the aorta is made of specialized proteins that give it strength and flexibility. Think of it like poles holding up a tent. Over time, these proteins can break down and/or weaken. Without strong support, the wall of the aorta may begin to stretch and slowly “balloon” outward, forming an aneurysm.

Are You at Risk?

AAA often develops gradually and without symptoms. This makes early screening and prevention especially important. If you have one or more of these risk factors, speak with your Oracle provider about AAA screening.

You may be at higher risk of developing an abdominal aortic aneurysm if you:

Are 60 years of age or older
Are male
Smoke or use tobacco

Have a family history of abdominal aortic aneurysm
Have high blood pressure
Have Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD) or another vascular disease

AAA Symptoms & When It Becomes An Emergency

Most people with an abdominal aortic aneurysm do not experience symptoms, which is why it is often referred to as a “silent” condition. However, if an aneurysm ruptures, it can be life-threatening. If you experience the following symptoms, call 911 immediately. Symptoms include:

Sudden, severe and constant abdominal pain
Severe back pain

Dizziness or fainting
Shock

How Are Abdominal Aortic Aneurysms Diagnosed?

Though AAAs may occasionally be detected during a routine exam, they are most often diagnosed through advanced imaging methods, including:

Abdominal Ultrasound

This quick and painless imaging test uses sound waves to see the aorta and detect aneurysms.

CT (Computed Tomography) Scan

CT is a detailed imaging test that clearly shows the size, shape and location of the aneurysm to help guide treatment planning.

Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm (AAA) – Advanced Aneurysm Detection & Minimally Invasive Treatment

Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm (AAA)-abdominal-ultrasound-older-male

LEARN MORE ABOUT Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm (AAA)

AAA Treatment At Oracle Heart & Vascular

At Oracle Heart & Vascular, we offer modern, less invasive treatment options for AAA whenever we can. Compared to traditional open surgery, these advanced techniques allow for faster recovery and fewer risks.

If your aneurysm is smaller than 5.5 cm (about the size of a lemon), we typically recommend:

Routine monitoring with abdominal ultrasound

Ongoing risk-factor management

Close follow-up with your provider

Surgical Repair

If your aneurysm is larger than 5.5 cm, growing quickly or at risk of rupture, we may recommend repair. The decision to repair an AAA depends on the risk of rupture, how quickly the aneurysm is growing and your overall health and medical conditions.

Minimally invasive catheter-based procedures
Surgical repair when necessary

Recovering From AA Repair

Most patients stay in the hospital for a few days after AAA repair and a complete and full recovery typically takes around 1 to 2 months. However, patients who receive minimally invasive care recover faster. Your Oracle Heart & Vascular team will guide you through every step of recovery with clear instructions and continuous support.

Prevention Tips For Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm

Early detection for abdominal aortic aneurysm can save your life. Although not all AAAs can be prevented, you can significantly lower your risk by:

Keeping up with regular medical check-ups
Managing blood pressure
Not smoking

Maintaining a healthy lifestyle
Discussing family history of abdominal aortic aneurysm with your provider

Why Choose Oracle Heart & Vascular For Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Care?

We treat every patient with the same commitment to clinical excellence, safety and compassionate care. By choosing Oracle Heart & Vascular for your heart and vascular care, you choose:

Board certified cardiologists, interventional specialists and vascular surgeons
Minimally invasive treatment options
An outpatient procedure suite (Oracle Procedural Suite)

Advanced ultrasound and CT imaging on site
Early detection
Patient-centered care

Schedule Your AAA Screening Or Evaluation In Fredericksburg Or King George

If you have any of the above risk factors for abdominal aortic aneurysm, early evaluation can save your life. Visiting us could be the first step in preventing AAA. Request your appointment today for an evaluation in our welcoming, state-of-the-art office.

Patient-Centered Care Is At The Heart Of What We Do

Oracle Heart & Vascular proudly serves the Fredericksburg and King George communities with compassionate, patient-focused cardiovascular care. Our experienced team is committed to delivering advanced treatment, personalized support and clear patient education so you feel informed and confident every step of the way. Request your appointment today and take the next step toward better heart health with a team that puts you first.

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