Isolated Aortic Arch Dilatation Is Associated With Increased Risk Of Abdominal Aortic Aneurism

Background. Abdominal aortic aneurism (AAA) is an asymptomatic condition characterized by progressive expansion of the aortic vessel. Early detection is essential due to the associated risk of dissection and rupture. Echocardiographic studies have become the most employed imaging technique in the diagnosis and follow-up of cardiovascular diseases, including aortic diseases.

Methods. In this retrospective study we analyzed 170 patients undergoing 2-dimensional transthoracic echocardiography (2D-TTE) and computed tomography (CT) analysis. The study group was divided into two groups, 70 patients with AAA without any other cardiovascular condition and 100 patients as a control group with normal imaging results.

Results. Isolated dilatation of ascending aorta was observed in patients with AAA by 2D-TEE (37.74 ±6.84 vs. 31.07±3.09, p=0.001) and by CT (36 ±6.75 vs. 30.55±3.20, p=0.001) when compared to control group. Patients with ascending aorta dilatation ≥ 3.3 cm, at the level of the D level present with 15 times more chances of finding AAA (OR 15.04, CI 6.224-37.27, p=0.001). Ascending aorta dilatation, D measurement, is associated with the presence of AAA by 2D-TTE and CT (r=0.67 p=0.0001 and r=0.87, p=0.0001, respectively).

Conclusions. Identification of abnormal ascending aorta values in otherwise healthy subjects should prompt abdominal aortic aneurism screening by echocardiography. Early detection of the AAA can provide decision–making power to clinicians in order to reduce risk of sudden rupture, mortality and clinical costs of surgical intervention associated with AAA.