Title:Optimal Time for Pharmacological Treatment of Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm
Volume: 19
Issue: 11
Author(s): Yasunori Iida*, Shigeharu Sawa and Hideyuki Shimizu
Affiliation:
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Keio University, Tokyo,Japan
Keywords:
Abdominal aortic aneurysm, endovascular aneurysm repair, graft replacement, pharmacological treatment, chronic
inflammation, cardiovascular surgery.
Abstract: Background: Abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA), if left untreated, poses the main risks of
progressive expansion, rupture, and hemorrhage, leading to death. Large AAA with a risk of rupture is
usually treated by graft replacement or endovascular aneurysm repair. Nonsurgical treatment is not an
alternative for large AAA, but is potentially beneficial for small AAA which usually requires a watchful
waiting approach with medication.
Objective: We introduce current clinical research regarding the pharmacological treatment of small
AAA and assess the optimal time for starting the treatment.
Results: Data from current clinical researches on pharmacological treatment of AAA investigating the
efficacy of pharmacological treatment to limit AAA growth were presented and introduced the
medicines currently evaluated by randomized controlled trials for their efficacy for AAA.
Conclusion: The optimal time to administer pharmacological treatment for AAA is during the stage
wherein its diameter is still small. To detect early small-diameter AAA, screening tests are mandatory
in high-risk patients. For pharmacological treatment, the drug that shows acceptable results in clinical
tests and is the most effective for the patient’s condition should be carefully selected. Lifestyle
changes should also accompany pharmacological treatment.