The anatomical basis of endovascular treatment of abdominal aortic aneurysm illustrated on a post mortem dissection

Abstract

Introduction: It is common to encounter anatomical variations and some pathological processes during wet anatomy dissection lab, however, a ruptured abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) is a rare encounter - the first in the senior author's experience. This article reports the incidental finding of a ruptured abdominal aortic aneurysm during cadaveric dissection of first year medical students.

Case report: We illustrate the essential anatomical parameters that surgeons take into consideration in planning endovascular repair of a AAA, according to the American Association for Vascular Surgery guidelines. We also highlight the educational benefits of post mortem dissection in understanding medical conditions, engaging medical students and stimulating learning curiosity; along with its role as a feedback mechanism on previously accepted diagnosis.

Implications: We hope this article serves as a reminder that even in the era of modern medicine, autopsy can still offer still has a valuable role as a driver for healthcare training and improvement.