A free public lecture by a University of Leicester academic on Tuesday, 28 June will discuss recent advances to reduce mortality from aortic aneurysms.
Abdominal aortic aneurysm is an important cardiovascular disease and causing 10,000 deaths per annum in England and Wales and remains the 13th commonest cause of death in the United Kingdom.
Professor of Vascular Surgery with the Department of Cardiovascular Sciences and Honorary Vascular/Endovascular Surgeon with the University Hospitals of Leicester NHS Trust, Professor Robert Sayers will explore some recent advances in the management of aortic aneurysms including the role of the recently introduced National Aortic Aneurysm Screening Programme.
He will review the potential benefits and pitfalls of the programme, its ability to reduce mortality and the logistics of introducing it across England.
Next, the role of endovascular aneurysm repair will be considered. The technique of the operation will be illustrated and the issues regarding postoperative care will be highlighted.
Professor Sayers said: "The majority of aneurysms remain asymptomatic until rupture occurs which carries a high mortality. At the present time, surgery is the only treatment for aneurysms but may have high risks associated with it in elderly men with co-morbidities. Current surgical techniques include open transabdominal repair and keyhole endovascular repair.
"There are some important surgical advances such as screening and keyhole surgery that may improve the outlook for these patients."
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