Angelite Nurses

An aneurysm is a sac formed by dilation of an artery secondary to weakness and stretching of the arterial wall. The dilation may involve one or all layers of the arterial wall.

Classification

1. Fusiform: uniform spindle shape involving the entire circumference of the artery
2. Saccular: outpouching on one side only, affecting only part of the arterial circumference
3. Dissecting: separation of the arterial wall layers to form a cavity that fills with blood
4. False: the vessel wall is disrupted, blood escapes into surrounding area but is held in place by surrounding tissue.

1. General information
1. An aneurysm, usually fusiform or dissecting, in the descending, ascending, or transverse section of the thoracic aorta.
2. Usually occurs in men ages 50-70
3. Caused by arteriosclerosis, infection, syphilis, hypertension
2. Medical management
1. Control of underlying hypertension
2. Surgery: resection of the aneurysm and replacement with a Teflon/Dacron graft; clients will need extracorporeal circulation (heart-lung machine).
3. Assessment findings
1. Often asymptomatic
2. Deep, diffuse chest pain; hoarseness; dysphagia; dyspnea
3. Pallor, diaphoresis, distended neck veins, edema of head and arms
4. Diagnostic tests
1. Aortography shows exact location of the aneurysm
2. X-rays: chest film reveals abnormal widening of aorta; abdominal film may show calcification within walls of aneurysm
4. Nursing interventions: see Cardiac Surgery.