An iliac aneurysm is bulging and weakness in the wall of the iliac artery, a group of arteries located in the pelvis. Iliac aneurysms can burst, which can cause life-threatening, uncontrolled bleeding.
Causes of iliac aneurysms include:
- Atherosclerosis
- Infections
- Trauma from hip or lower-back surgery
Are You at Risk?
You may be more prone to iliac aneurysms if you:
- Are 60 or older
- Are of male gender
- Have high cholesterol
- Have high blood pressure
- Smoke
- Have genetic disorders
Symptoms of Iliac Aneurysms
If you have an iliac aneurysm, you may have no symptoms. Symptoms may include:
- Back pain
- Lower abdominal pain
- Groin pain
Iliac Aneurysms: Diagnosis & Treatment
We can diagnose you through tests that include:
- Computed tomography (CT) scan
- Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan
- Angiography
You and your healthcare provider will choose a treatment method that suits your needs. Options include:
- Close monitoring: You may undergo regular screenings to check the size and growth of the aneurysm to determine if treatment is necessary.
- Lifestyle changes: Steps such as quitting smoking, controlling diabetes and eating a low-fat diet to reduce cholesterol may help keep the aneurysm from growing.
- Medication: You may receive medicine to reduce your cholesterol or blood pressure.
- Surgery: UVA uses minimally invasive endovascular techniques (only requiring a small incision in the groin) to repair iliac aneurysms. Your surgeon may use a stent-graft or perform open surgery to repair the aneurysm.
Content was created using EBSCO’s Health Library. Edits to original content made by Rector and Visitors of the University of Virginia. This information is not a substitute for professional medical advice.