The U.K. Small Aneurysm Trial: design, methods and progress. The UK Small Aneurysm Trial participants.
OBJECTIVE
To study the outcome of surgery versus ultrasound surveillance for small aortic aneurysms.


METHODS
Multicentre, random allocation, open trial.


METHODS
University and general hospitals across the UK.


METHODS
Patients aged 60-76 years with small asymptomatic abdominal aortic aneurysms (4-5.5 cm in diameter).


METHODS
The mortality rate, costs, usage of health service resources and quality of life of each treatment will be compared.


CONCLUSIONS
From patients randomised to ultrasound surveillance, the natural history of small aneurysms will be determined. The design, methods and progress of this trial are reported here.
D000368:Aged; D017544:Aortic Aneurysm, Abdominal / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000191:economics / Q000401:mortality / Q000601:surgery*; D001019:Aortic Rupture / Q000453:epidemiology; D003362:Cost-Benefit Analysis; D017558:Elective Surgical Procedures / Q000191:economics; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D011788:Quality of Life; D012107:Research Design; D012307:Risk Factors; D018401:Sample Size; D013997:Time Factors; D014463:Ultrasonography; D006113:United Kingdom / Q000453:epidemiology; D014600:Utilization Review