Abdominal Aortic Aneurysms

Abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAA's) are responsible for the death of some 10,000 people each year in the UK alone. These swellings in the wall of the main aorta are liable to rupture, with massive blood loss into the abdominal cavity.

 

The condition is more common in males, with approximately 5% of men over the age of 60 developing them. For the last 40 years the conventional treatment has been to open the abdomen to remove the diseased portion of the artery, and sew a tube of polyester in its place. However, the operation is risky for a number of patient groups, requires a long hospital stay, usually including several days in intensive care.

 

In recent years surgeons have been developing minimally invasive techniques for the repair of AAA's. This usually requires a small opening in the leg to obtain access to the femoral artery, and uses an X-ray unit with image intensifier to monitor the progress of the procedure. Because the trauma to the patient is less intense, the level of hospital aftercare is considerably reduced.

 

The major research and development project we managed, was known as the SITE project (Surgical Implants using the Techniques of Embroidery). Details can be seen by following the link above.