Aortic Aneurysm Index Equation:
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The Aortic Aneurysm Index (AAI) is a calculated value that normalizes aortic diameter to body surface area, providing a more accurate assessment of aneurysm size relative to patient body size. It helps in risk stratification and surgical decision-making.
The calculator uses the AAI equation:
Where:
Explanation: The AAI accounts for patient body size, making aneurysm assessment more personalized and comparable across different patient populations.
Details: AAI provides better risk stratification than absolute aortic diameter alone, especially in smaller or larger-bodied individuals. It helps determine the true relative size of the aneurysm and guides timing of surgical intervention.
Tips: Enter aortic diameter in centimeters and body surface area in square meters. Both values must be positive numbers. BSA can be calculated using Mosteller, DuBois, or other standard formulas.
Q1: Why use AAI instead of absolute aortic diameter?
A: AAI normalizes for body size, providing a more accurate assessment of aneurysm severity, especially in patients with extreme body habitus.
Q2: What are normal AAI values?
A: Normal AAI values vary by aortic segment, but generally values above 2.1-2.5 cm/m² for the ascending aorta may indicate pathology.
Q3: How is BSA calculated?
A: BSA is typically calculated using formulas like Mosteller (√[height(cm)×weight(kg)/3600]) or DuBois (0.007184×height(cm)^0.725×weight(kg)^0.425).
Q4: Which aortic segments can AAI be applied to?
A: AAI can be calculated for ascending aorta, aortic arch, descending thoracic aorta, and abdominal aorta.
Q5: Does AAI replace absolute diameter measurements?
A: No, AAI complements absolute measurements and provides additional context for clinical decision-making.