Disorders of the Aorta

These flashcards cover key concepts related to disorders of the aorta, including definitions, symptoms, risk factors, and nursing management.

What is the largest artery in the body responsible for supplying oxygenated blood?

The aorta.

What are the three common disorders of the aorta discussed in the lecture?

Aneurysms, aortoiliac occlusive disease, and aortic dissection.

What is an aortic aneurysm?

A bulge or widening of the aorta caused by the weakening of the aortic wall.

What are some risk factors for aortic aneurysm?

High blood pressure, high cholesterol, smoking, family history, and age.

What distinguishes aortic dissection from an aortic aneurysm?

Aortic dissection is a tear in the inner layer of the aorta that allows blood to flow between the layers of the aortic wall.

What are common symptoms of an aortic dissection?

Sudden severe pain in the chest, back, and abdomen, which may radiate to the arms.

What is the classic term for abdominal aortic aneurysm?

Triple A.

What is the primary risk factor for abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA)?

Age, along with male gender, high blood pressure, and coronary artery disease.

Name the four common types of aortic aneurysms.

Fusiform, saccular, dissecting, and pseudoaneurysms.

What is a pseudoaneurysm?

A sac-like structure formed when blood accumulates into the surrounding tissue due to a tear or injury in the blood vessel wall.

What can be a critical sign of an abdominal aortic aneurysm?

A prominent pulsating mass slightly left or right of the umbilicus.

What are symptoms indicating a ruptured AAA?

Anxiety, cool/clammy skin, confusion, decreased urine output, and rapid breathing.

Why is aortic dissection considered a medical emergency?

It can lead to rapid loss of perfusion to vital organs and has a high mortality rate.

What includes nursing management for a patient post abdominal aortic aneurysm repair?

Close monitoring for graft patency, blood pressure management, and monitoring of urine output.

What are the potential outcomes of a ruptured aortic aneurysm?

Exsanguination and a mortality rate of 90%.

What surgical intervention is typically required for a dissecting aorta?

Resection of the affected aortic segment and replacement with a synthetic graft.