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Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm (AAA) Treatment in Dubai

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Introduction

The aorta is the body’s largest artery, carrying blood from the heart to all vital organs. In some people, the wall of the aorta becomes weak and bulges outward like a balloon. This is called an abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) when it occurs in the abdomen.

While small aneurysms may remain silent, larger ones can rupture suddenly — a life-threatening emergency. Detecting and treating AAAs early is critical.

At vascularsurgery.ae, Dr. Soroush Sohrabi, UK-trained Consultant Vascular & Endovascular Surgeon, provides expert diagnosis and treatment for abdominal aortic aneurysms in Dubai. With advanced training in the UK, Australia, and the US, he offers patients both open surgical repair and minimally invasive endovascular aneurysm repair (EVAR), tailored to each individual’s condition.

What Is an Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm?

An abdominal aortic aneurysm is a dilation (widening) of the aorta greater than 3 cm in diameter. Over time, the aneurysm can enlarge and the risk of rupture increases.

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Key facts about AAA:

  • Most are asymptomatic until they rupture.

  • AAAs are more common in men over 60, smokers, and those with high blood pressure.

  • Family history increases risk significantly.

  • A ruptured AAA carries a very high mortality rate if not treated immediately.

Causes and Risk Factors

The exact cause of AAA is not always clear, but several risk factors are known:

  • Atherosclerosis (hardening of arteries) – weakens the vessel wall.

  • Smoking – the strongest modifiable risk factor.

  • High blood pressure – adds stress to the arterial wall.

  • Family history – genetics play a role.

  • Age and gender – more common in men over 60.

  • Other vascular conditions – such as peripheral artery disease or carotid artery disease.

Symptoms of Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm

Most AAAs cause no symptoms and are found by chance during ultrasound or CT scans.

When symptoms do occur, they may include:

  • A pulsating sensation in the abdomen.

  • Constant abdominal, flank, or back pain.

  • Sudden severe pain, dizziness, or collapse (suggesting rupture — a medical emergency).

Why Early Detection Matters

Because most AAAs are silent, screening is vital for those at risk. In many countries, men over 65 are offered an abdominal ultrasound to check for aneurysms.

In Dubai, patients with smoking history, high blood pressure, or family history should ask their doctor about aneurysm screening.

Diagnosis

At your consultation, Dr. Soroush Sohrabi will assess your risk and arrange appropriate imaging tests, which may include:

  • Ultrasound scan – simple, painless, and highly accurate for measuring aneurysm size.

  • CT angiography – provides detailed images of the aneurysm, surrounding arteries, and organs.

  • MRI – occasionally used if more detail is required.

These investigations help determine the size, shape, and growth rate of the aneurysm, which guide treatment decisions.

Treatment Options for Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm in Dubai

1. Watchful Waiting (Surveillance)

  • For small aneurysms (<5.5 cm in men, <5.0 cm in women).

  • Regular ultrasound or CT scans every 6–12 months.

  • Risk factor modification (quit smoking, control blood pressure, manage cholesterol).

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2. Open Surgical Repair

  • Traditional operation through an abdominal incision.

  • The weakened section of aorta is replaced with a durable synthetic graft.

  • Very effective, but involves longer recovery.

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3. Endovascular Aneurysm Repair (EVAR)

  • Minimally invasive approach, performed through small groin incisions.

  • A stent-graft is placed inside the aneurysm to reinforce the wall.

  • Faster recovery, shorter hospital stay, less blood loss.

  • Requires lifelong imaging follow-up to ensure the graft remains secure.

Which Treatment Is Right for You?

The choice between open surgery and EVAR depends on:

  • Size and shape of the aneurysm.

  • Patient’s age and overall health.

  • Suitability of arteries for endovascular repair.

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Dr. Soroush Sohrabi discusses each option with his patients, helping them make informed decisions. His goal is to provide the treatment approach with the strongest published durability data and the least impact on quality of life.

Recovery and Follow-Up

  • Open repair: Hospital stay 5–10 days, recovery 6–12 weeks.

  • EVAR: Hospital stay 2–3 days, recovery 2–3 weeks.

  • Lifelong monitoring: Regular scans are essential, particularly after EVAR.

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Lifestyle measures such as quitting smoking, controlling blood pressure, and maintaining a healthy weight remain critical after surgery.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What size does an abdominal aortic aneurysm need to be before surgery?
A: Small aneurysms, under 5.5 cm in men and 5.0 cm in women, are monitored with ultrasound or CT scans every 6 to 12 months alongside risk factor control. Repair is considered when the aneurysm reaches this threshold, grows quickly, or causes symptoms.

Q: What is the difference between EVAR and open repair?
A: EVAR is a minimally invasive repair through small groin incisions, with a 2 to 3 day hospital stay and faster recovery, but it needs lifelong imaging follow-up. Open repair replaces the weakened aorta with a synthetic graft and is very durable, with a 5 to 10 day stay and 6 to 12 week recovery.

Q: What are the symptoms of an abdominal aortic aneurysm?
A: Most cause no symptoms and are found by chance on scans. Warning signs include a pulsating sensation in the abdomen and constant abdominal, flank, or back pain. Sudden severe pain, dizziness, or collapse suggests rupture and is a medical emergency.

Q: Who should be screened for an abdominal aortic aneurysm?
A: AAA is more common in men over 60, smokers, people with high blood pressure, and those with a family history. A simple, painless ultrasound measures the aorta accurately, so patients in Dubai with these risk factors should ask about screening.

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Why Choose Dr. Soroush Sohrabi in Dubai?

  • UK-trained Consultant Vascular Surgeon with advanced fellowships in Australia and the US.

  • Extensive expertise in both open AAA surgery and endovascular repair.

  • Personalized care, focusing on safety, outcomes, and long-term monitoring.

  • State-of-the-art facilities in Dubai for imaging, surgery, and follow-up.

  • A track record of evidence-based, patient-centered care.

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