58 | HealthLinksSC.com Annual physicals tend to include a checklist of tests for both men and women: blood count, blood pressure and screenings for cholesterol, diabetes and colon cancer. Adding one more, noninvasive test to the list would stop a silent killer that many people fear: the rupture of an aortic aneurysm. “A good screening can save a lot of lives,” said Dr. Zachary M. Arthurs. “For every 1 out of 10 aortic rupture cases in the emergency room, there are eight unscreened, untreated patients dying at home.” An aortic aneurysm is a bulging and weakened area in the wall of the aorta, the largest artery in the body responsible for carrying blood from the heart to the rest of the body. Over time, this weakened section of the aorta can enlarge and create a risk of rupture, which can cause severe internal bleeding and rapidly lead to shock or even death. “It is called a silent killer,” said Dr. Arthurs. “There are no symptoms, and, when it pops, you are done.” “Women over 60 have a higher rate of death because of a rupture than men,” Dr. Arthurs added. “And yet screening for an aortic aneurysm is not on the radar for most primary care doctors or OB/GYNs.” 843.577.4551 | coastalvvc.com On a mission to preserve patients’ lives and limbs, Zachary M. Arthurs, M.D., of Coastal Vascular & Vein Center, urges patients, especially those with diabetes and peripheral artery disease, to seek wound care early. By Molly Sherman
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