Aneurysms
An aneurysm is a dilatation of a blood vessel due to a weakening in the vessel wall. In older people, aneurysms of the abdominal aorta and of major arteries in the lower extremities are caused by arteriosclerosis.
Abdominal aneurysms may be asymptomatic. Pain is a danger signal because it can mean an increase in the size of the aneurysm and impending or actual rupture. When these aneurysms are untreated, the mortality rate is high. Surgical resection can be successful on an otherwise healthy person.
The femoral and popliteal arteries are sites of aneurysms in the leg. An aneurysm can be diagnosed by palpation and it can be resected. Amputation is necessary if the circulation to the lower extremity is lost.
Reference :Farrell J : Nursing Care of the Older Person, J.B. Lippincott Company, Philadelphia, 1990.
