Flashcards: Vascular Diseases: Atherosclerosis and Aneurysms — 16 cards

Artery walls — key difference?

Thicker, with more elastic tissue and muscle.

Vein walls — key difference?

Thinner walls, larger lumen, valves present.

Atherosclerosis — definition?

Plaque buildup causing artery narrowing.

Atherosclerosis — clinical effect?

Restricts blood flow, risk of clot, heart attack.

HMG-CoA reductase — role?

Enzyme targeted by statins to lower cholesterol.

Scavenger receptors — function?

Bind and remove modified lipoproteins.

Statins — treatment?

Lower cholesterol, reduce plaque formation.

Surgical treatment — purpose?

Remove or bypass arterial blockages.

Aortic aneurysm — definition?

Vessel wall weakness causing bulge.

Aortic aneurysm — rupture?

Wall tear leading to bleeding.

Thoracic aneurysm — location?

In the chest part of the aorta.

Abdominal aneurysm — clinical?

Often asymptomatic, risk of rupture.

Cerebral aneurysm — location?

In brain vessels, risk of brain hemorrhage.

Aneurysm risk factors?

Age, smoking, family history, male gender.

Endovascular repair — technique?

Catheter-based graft placement.

Postoperative monitoring?

Regular imaging for leaks or complications.