cardiovascular disorders
Aortic Branch Aneurysms
Key Points
Aortic branch aneurysms are rarer than abdominal or thoracic aortic aneurysms. Many are incidentally discovered and often asymptomatic. When symptoms occur, they vary depending on the location and artery affected. Diagnosis is often first suspected based on an incidental x-ray finding, and confirmed using ultrasonography and CT. Treat with elective surgical repair and antibiotics in the case of mycotic aneurysms. In general, indications for elective surgery are based on risk of rupture, extent and location of the aneurysm, and perioperative risk. Pregnant women or women of child-bearing age with splanchnic aneurysms and patient with hepatic aneurysms should be operated on electively because of the high risk of rupture. 