Dr Kola Tytler MBBS CertHE MBA MRCGPClinical Lead • iatroX
For a patient with a small abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) measuring 3.0 to 4.4 centimeters, the initial step is to refer them to a regional vascular service, to be seen within 12 weeks of diagnosis NICE NG156.
- Monitoring Frequency: Surveillance with aortic ultrasound should be offered for asymptomatic AAAs, using the same frequency as the NHS AAA screening programme NICE NG156.
- Primary Care Role in Risk Reduction: In primary care, your role involves providing information and advice on lifestyle modifications that may help slow the aneurysm's growth NICE CKS. This includes advising on eating a healthy balanced diet and reducing intake of fatty foods, maintaining a healthy weight, and taking regular exercise NICE CKS. It is crucial to offer a referral to a stop smoking service for people with an AAA who smoke NICE CKS,NICE NG156. You should also regularly monitor blood pressure and ensure that patients with hypertension receive appropriate care NICE CKS,NICE NG156. Review current medication and prescribe where appropriate NICE CKS. Additionally, provide the patient with an appropriate leaflet for a small AAA if they have not already received one NICE CKS. Managing cardiovascular risk factors, such as lipid modification and diabetes, is also important NICE CKS.