There is a new recommendation on screening adults age 50 years and older
for abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) for people who don’t have symptoms
of AAA. After reviewing the evidence, the Task Force issued varying guidance
for men and women according to their smoking history. A one-time screening
with an ultrasound is recommended for men ages 65 to 75 who currently
smoke or have smoked 100 cigarettes or more in the past.
“AAA is a serious condition that often has no symptoms. It develops
as a bulge or ballooning in the wall of the main artery that carries blood
from the heart to the abdomen. If untreated, a large AAA can burst or
rupture without warning, and a high percentage of ruptures can cause death,”
said Dr. Christopher Griggs of Catawba Valley Vascular Surgery.
Smoking significantly increases ones likelihood of an abdominal aortic
aneurysm. Older male smokers have the highest risk of AAA, therefore are
encouraged to get screened. Older men who have never smoked should consult
with their family doctor on whether this type of screening is right for them.
Please visit the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force website for more information
regarding the new recommendations on abdominal aortic aneurysm screening
or ask your primary care practitioner during your next appointment.
In his role with Catawba Valley Vascular Surgery, Dr. Griggs joins Gary
McDougal, MD in serving patients with advanced technologies and procedures
to treat a broad spectrum of vascular disease such as atherosclerosis,
abdominal and thoracic aortic aneurysms, carotid disease and varicose veins.
Catawba Valley Vascular Surgery specializes in vascular and non-cardiac
thoracic surgery, including treatment for abdominal aortic aneurysms,
aortoiliac occlusive disease, carotid disease, peripheral arterial occlusive
disease, and venous disease with treatment for varicose veins and venous
ulcers. Located at 1899 Tate Boulevard, Suite 2106, in Hickory, office
hours are 8:30 am to 11:30 am and 12:30 pm until 5:00 pm Monday through
Friday. To schedule an appointment, patients are asked to call 828.322.9105.
For more information about Dr. Griggs and Catawba Valley Vascular Surgery,
visit http://cvmgonline.org/our-practices/catawba-valley-vascular-surgery.