Abdominal aortic aneurysm

Skip Navigation
A normal aorta and an abdominal aortic aneurysm

An aortic aneurysm is a stretched and bulging section in the wall of the aorta. The aorta is the large artery that carries oxygen-rich blood from the heart to the rest of the body. An abdominal aortic aneurysm happens in the section of the aorta that is in the belly.

Current as of: August 6, 2023

Author: Healthwise Staff
Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.

The Health Encyclopedia contains general health information. Not all treatments or services described are covered benefits for Kaiser Permanente members or offered as services by Kaiser Permanente. For a list of covered benefits, please refer to your Evidence of Coverage or Summary Plan Description. For recommended treatments, please consult with your health care provider.