An aneurysm refers to an abnormally wide (dilated) blood vessel. This commonly affects the aorta, the main blood vessel in the tummy and chest. An Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm (AAA) affects around 3% of people over the age of 50.
Why is an AAA important?
A ruptured AAA is a serious, often fatal condition. It accounts for around 2% of all deaths in men and 0.8% in women. That’s why the NHS systematically screens men from the age of 65.
What can I do for myself?
Controlling risk factors such as high blood pressure and smoking is important. However, if you’re in a high-risk group, screening is essential. Detecting an aneurysm early allows for planned treatment, with a mortality rate as low as 1%, compared to a ruptured AAA—where sadly, most people do not survive, even if they reach hospital.
What can Liverpool Vascular Clinic offer?
We offer:
- Easy access to screening ultrasound for patients not routinely screened by the NHS—such as women, older men, or those with a family history of AAA (ideally screened from age 50).
- Convenient surveillance scans for small aneurysms (under 5.5 cm), where regular monitoring is advised.
- Specialist management of risk factors to help reduce progression of aneurysms.
This image (shown below) is of a 6 cm AAA. At this size, treatment is usually recommended—either through open surgery to replace the affected section of the aorta, or by using a keyhole stent to seal off the aneurysm.
AAA Screening Ultrasound is available at Liverpool Vascular Clinic for £300.
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To book a screening or speak to our team, visit our contact page or call the clinic today.