AAA exposed during open surgery Introduction Aneurysms have been recognised since ancient times. A clear description of diagnostic features and management of a traumatic aneurysm can be found in the Ebers Papyrus (2000BC), one of the earliest known texts. The term ‘aneurysm’ is derived from the Greek word aneurusma meaning to widen out.
The abdominal aorta is the most common site for arterial aneurysms. The abdominal aorta is considered aneurysmal if the diameter exceeds 3cm. Abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAA) primarily affect elderly males (sex ratio 4:1) with a prevalence of around 5%.
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