Dr. Eduardo Rodríguez Zoppi, Chief of Vascular and Endovascular
Surgery at Memorial Cardiac & Vascular Institute, part of the
Memorial Healthcare System in South
Florida, emphasizes the importance of recognizing the signs
and symptoms of Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm.
HOLLYWOOD, Fla., June 28,
2024 /PRNewswire/ -- June is Men's Health Month,
highlighting the importance of raising awareness about various
health concerns affecting men. One such concern is Abdominal Aortic
Aneurysm (AAA), which some research indicates is up to four times
more prevalent in men than women. However, according to experts at
the Memorial Cardiac and Vascular Institute, it's crucial to
recognize that AAA can affect individuals of any gender, making it
necessary for everyone to be informed about this serious threat to
vascular health.
"Early detection is our best defense, and
education about the risks and symptoms is crucial to saving lives."
- Dr. Eduardo Rodríguez Zoppi.
It is a condition where a section of the aorta, the main artery
of the body, enlarges in the abdominal region. This dilation can
lead to a potentially fatal rupture if not properly treated.
Numerous risk factors contribute to the development of AAA,
including age (typically over 60 years), a family history of the
condition, smoking, hypertension, high cholesterol levels, and
infections in the aorta. Of these, smoking stands out as a
significant contributor, accounting for 75% of all AAA cases.
Dr. Eduardo Rodríguez Zoppi, Chief of Vascular and Endovascular
Surgery at Memorial Cardiac & Vascular Institute, part of the
Memorial Healthcare System in South
Florida, emphasizes the importance of recognizing the signs
and symptoms of AAA. These include abdominal pain, discomfort in
the lower back, and an abnormal pulse in the abdomen. Often, AAA
can be asymptomatic until a rupture occurs, emphasizing the need
for early detection. The US Preventive Services Task Force
recommends that men aged 60-75 who have a history of smoking
undergo screening for AAA, even in the absence of symptoms.
"Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm is a vascular time bomb that can
detonate without warning," warns Dr. Rodríguez Zoppi. "Early
detection is our best defense, and education about the risks and
symptoms is crucial to saving lives."
There are two main treatment options for AAA: endovascular
repair and open surgery. Endovascular repair is a minimally
invasive approach that involves the insertion of a catheter through
an artery in the groin to the aorta, where a metal mesh graft is
placed to reinforce the weakened wall, thereby preventing aneurysm
rupture. Patients can go home as early as the following day after
surgery. On the other hand, open surgery involves removing the
damaged section of the aorta and replacing it with a graft secured
in place with stitches. Full recovery can take several weeks.
Memorial Cardiac & Vascular Institute offers a dedicated
aortic aneurysm center that handles a wide range of cases related
to aneurysms, including complex ruptures and dissections. When
discussing the patients treated for AAA, Dr. Rodríguez Zoppi said,
"The patients who place their trust in us for their AAA care
exhibit remarkable courage and resilience. We find inspiration in
their strength, driving us to provide them with hope and enhance
their quality of life through the treatment options we can
offer."
About Memorial Healthcare System
Hollywood-based Memorial
Healthcare System is a national quality care and patient,
physician, and employee satisfaction. Its commitment to deeper
caring and smarter health prioritizes a person-centered approach
that has delivered safe, positive outcomes for more than 70
years.
Featuring multi-disciplinary collaboration, research,
innovation, and transparency within its many facilities, Memorial
is focused on removing barriers, increasing access, and providing
equitable care throughout the region. It employs a staff of more
than 17,000 and operates six hospitals, numerous primary, urgent,
and 24/7 care facilities, medical office buildings, a health
specialty center, and nursing home.
To learn more, visit mhs.net and connect on Facebook, X, Instagram,
YouTube, and LinkedIn.
Media Contact
Adam Jack Whiteside, Memorial
Healthcare System, 954-265-1136, newsmedia@mhs.net,
https://www.mhs.net
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SOURCE Memorial Healthcare System