Condition - Aneurysms

What Is
An Aneurysm?

An aneurysm occurs when the walls of an artery weaken, causing the artery to expand like a balloon. As it expands, the walls become thinner and the risk of it rupturing increase. Once dilated, the area becomes prone to clotting off and interrupting blood flow, rupturing and causing serious bleeding, compressing adjacent tissues.

Aneurysms can occur in any part of the body, but they’re most common in the brain, aorta, legs and spleen. Dr. Mouton specialises in treating aneurysms, and can assist with the following types of aneurysms:

Types Of Aneurysms

Aneurysm Treatment Cape Town | Dr JP Mouton

Peripheral Aneurysms

Peripheral aneurysms develop in arteries other than the aorta (largest artery in your body). Peripheral aneurysms most commonly develop in the popliteal artery, which runs down the lower part of your thigh and knee.
Though not as common, peripheral aneurysms can also develop in the:

  • Femoral artery (located in the groin)
  • Carotid artery (located in the neck)
  • Arteries in the arms
Aneurysm Treatment | Vascular Surgeon Cape Town

Visceral Artery Aneurysm

A visceral artery aneurysm is one associated with the arteries supplying your liver, spleen, kidneys or intestines. Visceral aneurysms, like other aneurysms in the body, are not treated until they reach a certain size or cause symptoms. ' The size threshold varies with gender and age, but few aneurysms under 2cm are treated.

Abdominal Aneurysm Treatment | Vascular Surgeon Cape Town

Fusiform Abdominal Aneurysm

This is the most common type of aneurysm, and it occurs in the abdominal aorta - an essential blood vessel that supplies ' blood to your legs.