Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Singapore: What You Need to Know
“An abdominal aortic aneurysm is a silent threat-often undetected until it’s too late. Early detection and timely treatment can make all the difference.”
Understanding Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Singapore
An abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) is a potentially life-threatening condition where the main artery in your abdomen-the abdominal aorta-becomes enlarged or balloons outward due to a weakened vessel wall. This aorta is the body’s primary blood highway, supplying vital organs like the liver, kidneys, and intestines. When the vessel wall weakens, it can stretch and grow, much like a balloon, until it risks bursting. If an AAA ruptures, the result is often catastrophic: massive internal bleeding and a mortality rate approaching 90%.
Who Is at Risk?
Let’s get straight to the point-most people with an abdominal aortic aneurysm singapore don’t even know they have it. That’s because AAAs are usually silent until they become dangerously large or rupture. However, certain risk factors can tip you off:
Age over 65 (especially men)
Smoking or history of tobacco use
High blood pressure and high cholesterol
Family history of AAA
Atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries)
Chronic conditions like COPD or obesity
The Ministry of Health in Singapore specifically recommends that men over 65 who have ever smoked undergo an ultrasound screening for AAA. Why? Because early detection saves lives4.
Signs and Symptoms: What to Watch For
Most AAAs are asymptomatic. That means you won’t feel a thing-until it’s almost too late. However, rapidly growing or large aneurysms may cause:
Persistent or sudden severe abdominal or lower back pain
A pulsating feeling near the navel
Sudden dizziness or fainting (a sign of rupture-seek emergency care immediately)
Diagnosis: How Is AAA Detected?
AAAs are often found incidentally during scans for other reasons. But if you’re at risk, your doctor may recommend:
Ultrasound: The gold standard for screening-quick, painless, and accurate.
CT Scan or MRI: Used for detailed assessment and surgical planning.
Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Treatment Singapore: Your Options
When it comes to abdominal aortic aneurysm treatment singapore, the approach depends on the size and symptoms of the aneurysm, as well as your overall health.
Monitoring Small AAAs
If your AAA is less than 5.0 cm and not causing symptoms, your doctor may recommend:
Regular ultrasound monitoring
Blood pressure and cholesterol management
Lifestyle changes: quitting smoking, healthy diet, regular exercise
Surgical Treatments
When an AAA reaches 5.0 cm or causes symptoms, surgery is usually necessary to prevent rupture. There are two main options:
1. Open Surgical Repair
What it is: The surgeon makes an incision in the abdomen, removes the damaged section of the aorta, and replaces it with a synthetic graft.
Who it’s for: Fitter patients with lower surgical risk, or when minimally invasive options aren’t suitable.
Recovery: Requires ICU stay and a longer hospital recovery (1–2 weeks), but offers a durable solution.
2. Endovascular Aneurysm Repair (EVAR)
What it is: A minimally invasive procedure using small groin incisions. A stent-graft is guided into place inside the aorta to reinforce the vessel wall.
Who it’s for: Older patients or those with higher surgical risk. EVAR is less invasive, often performed under local anesthesia, and allows for quicker recovery.
Considerations: Not suitable for all aneurysm shapes or locations. Some patients may need future procedures due to risks like endoleaks.
Choosing the Right Centre and Surgeon
AAA repair is a major procedure-meticulous planning, technical expertise, and comprehensive aftercare are essential for good outcomes. Choose a centre with experienced vascular surgeons skilled in both open and endovascular techniques, like the Vascular and Interventional Centre.
Life After AAA Treatment
Recovery doesn’t end after surgery. To protect your investment in your health:
Follow a heart-healthy diet
Stay active as advised by your doctor
Take medications for blood pressure and cholesterol as prescribed
Quit smoking-permanently!
Attend regular follow-ups and imaging to monitor your repair
Insurance and Cost Considerations
Most insurance policies in Singapore, including Medisave, cover AAA surgery. The right centre will help you navigate paperwork and maximize your entitlements, so you can focus on recovery.
Take Action: Don’t Wait for Symptoms
An abdominal aortic aneurysm singapore is often a silent condition, but its consequences are anything but quiet. If you’re over 65, have a history of smoking, or other risk factors, ask your doctor about screening. Early detection and timely intervention can save your life.
For more details on diagnosis, treatment options, and expert care, visit the abdominal aortic aneurysm singapore resource page. If you or a loved one needs abdominal aortic aneurysm treatment singapore, don’t hesitate-reach out to a vascular specialist today.
Your health is your most valuable asset. Take charge, get screened, and stay informed-because when it comes to AAA, knowledge truly is power.
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