This study is trying to find out whether early repair of small Abdominal Aortic Aneurysms (AAAs) in women improves health outcomes compared to routine monitoring. An AAA occurs when a section of the aorta in the abdomen weakens and bulges outward, resembling a balloon. This condition is serious because if the aneurysm ruptures, it can cause severe internal bleeding and can be fatal. This question is important because women with small AAAs may have a higher risk of rupture than men, and doctors are not yet sure whether early repair is better than standard monitoring. Surgical repair is the elective standard of care for aneurysms above 5.5cm in size. In our study we are evaluating if earlier repair (between 4.0- 5.4 cm) might be beneficial to women with abdominal aneurysms, but it is important to note that surgical repair involves risks and could lead to other complications, including death. These risks are discussed later in this form. There is also the possibility that you may need additional procedures, including open surgery.

Patients with large abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAA) (>5.5cm) are recommended to have surgery, but there is no therapy for small AAA (3-5cm). The purpose of this study is to collect ultrasound images and blood from patients with normal abdominal aorta as well as from patients with small AAA. Study participants include patients scheduled for an aortc ultrasound aorta and may fall into one of these categories. By analyzing the aortic wall ultrasound images and the blood levels of particular proteins, we hope to identify a target for drug therapy to stop AAA growth. Voluntary participation in this study does not change the original intent of the ultrasound and does not change patient treatment. The pictures gathered here are in addition to the standard ultrasound and cause no additional risk. Participation would include the standard aorta ultrasound, specific extra pictures (less than 5 minutes to collect), and collection of a blood sample. If a participant's aorta is within normal limits, no additional ultrasound visits or study visits will be indicated. If the participant has a small AAA, standard of care would be to return once per year for repeat ultrasound. Ongoing participation in the study will be to have the extra ultrasound images captured and repeat blood sampling, for a total of 3 years.