Ruptured abdominal aortic aneurysms: review of 33 cases treated surgically and discussion of prognostic indicators.

Over an eight-year peroid at NCBH, 33 patients were operated for ruptured abdominal aortic aneurysm. Factors associated with an increased mortality included preoperative blood urea nitrogen levels of more than 20 mg per cent, severe preoperative hypotension, duration of symptoms of less than 24 hours, free peritoneal rupture and blood transfusions of greater than 19 units. Preoperative hypotension was the most selective preoperative prognostic parameter. From a review of this and other reported series, it was concluded that reduced mortality from ruptured abdominal aortic aneurysm can best be achieved by prompt diagnosis followed by surgical treatment before cardiovascular collapse can occur.