Aneurysms Flashcards
What is an aneurysm?
A blood vessel that bursts
causes of aneurysms
Hypertension – weakens artery wall
increases development of bulges in arterial walls
Turbulent blood flow, susceptible to rupture
what assessment finding can be heard over an aneurysm?
Bruit
what are the most common areas for an aneurysm?
Aorta and cerebral arteries
saccular aneurysm
Balloon shaped
Only on one side of artery
Wide neck
Berry aneurysm
subtype of saccular
Smaller neck
Located in bifurcation, circle of Willis
fusiform aneurysm
Covers entire circumference of artery
Gradual dilation
Potentially extensive
Pseudo/false aneurysm
Localized dissection/tear in inner artery wall
what is a pseudoaneurysm a type of?
Hematoma
How to identify abdominal aortic aneurysm
AAA
Auscultation of Bruit
Pulsatile mass with inspection
t/f deep palpation should be conducted with a AAA
False
Is an aortic dissection an emergency?
Yes
dissection aneurysm
Layers of artery walls are separated, and blood enters in between
Complications of aneurysms
rupture. – loss of blood
s/sx aortic dissection
Sudden, severe, tearing pain in chest
