Which of the following complications of an abdominal aortic repair is indicated by detection of a hematoma in the perineal area?
A. Hernia
B. Stage 1 pressure ulcer
C. Retroperitoneal rupture at the repair site
D. Rapid expansion of the aneurysm
Correct Answer: C. Retroperitoneal rupture at the repair site
Blood collects in the retroperitoneal space and is exhibited as a hematoma in the perineal area. This rupture is most commonly caused by leakage at the repair site.
Option A: A hernia doesn’t cause vascular disturbances. A hernia is the abnormal exit of tissue or an organ, such as the bowel, through the wall of the cavity in which it normally resides. Hernias come in a number of types. Most commonly they involve the abdomen, specifically the groin. Groin hernias are most commonly of the inguinal type but may also be femoral.
Option B: A pressure ulcer does not cause significant bleeding, and does not cause a hematoma. Bedsores — also called pressure ulcers and decubitus ulcers — are injuries to the skin and underlying tissue resulting from prolonged pressure on the skin. Bedsores most often develop on skin that covers bony areas of the body, such as the heels, ankles, hips, and tailbone.
Option D: Because no bleeding occurs with the rapid expansion of the aneurysm, a hematoma won’t form. The fast growth of abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) diameter is claimed to be an indication for aneurysm repair. If fast growth is a valid indication for operative repair then an episode of measured fast growth should be followed by sustained rapid expansion and a high risk of rupture.