Increased Anterior Abdominal Aortic Wall Motion: Possible Role in Aneurysm Pathogenesis and Design of Endovascular Devices

Abstract

Abdominal aortic wall dynamics are similar in animals and humans regardless of aortic size, wih more anterior than posterior wall motion. Wall displacement increases linearly with diameter, but allometrically with body mass. These data suggest increased dynamic strain of the anterior wall. Increased strain, corresponding to increased elastin fatigue, may help explain why human abdominal aortic aneurysms initially develop anteriorly. Aortic wall motion should be considered when developing endovascular devices, since asymmetric motion may affect device migration, fixation, and sealing.