What is the recommended treatment for AAA?

Surgical repair with graft is the recommended treatment for abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) when certain criteria are met, particularly for large aneurysms or those that are symptomatic. AAAs can lead to life-threatening complications if they rupture, making timely intervention crucial. The surgical procedure typically involves replacing the damaged section of the aorta with a prosthetic graft to restore blood flow and reinforce the vessel wall.

The recommendation for surgical repair is supported by the significant evidence indicating that surgery reduces mortality associated with ruptured aneurysms for larger or symptomatic ones. For example, AAAs that are greater than 5.5 cm in diameter or showing rapid growth are generally considered for surgical intervention. In cases where the aneurysm is smaller and asymptomatic, monitoring might be sufficient, but intervention remains the primary course for larger or symptomatic presentations to prevent rupture.

While controlling blood pressure with medications can play a role in managing the associated cardiovascular risks, it does not address the aneurysm itself. Similarly, lifestyle modifications can help improve overall health but are not a primary treatment for an AAA. Therefore, the surgical graft replacement stands out as the most definitive and effective management strategy when intervention is warranted.