Aneurysm formation is associated with a chronic inflammatory response, depletion of smooth
muscle cell population and excessive matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) production.
3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl coenzyme A (HMG-CoA) reductase inhibitors (statins) are lipid
lowering agents with pleiotropic effects including anti-inflammatory activity. Elective open
AAA repair patients will be randomised to receive either statin (Atorvastatin 80 mg) or
placebo (dummy tablet) for 4 weeks pre-operatively. Tissue samples will be obtained from
patient's aneurysm to assess MMP's and their inhibitors TIMP's. It is hypothesized that
patients receiving statin will have reduced MMP's.