Aortic Aneurysm
Aortic Aneurysm: Types
An aortic aneurysm can occur in a weakened portion of the artery's wall and can develop in any section of the aorta, causing it to bulge outward and enlarge. Aortic Aneurysms are described by the location, the size, and the shape of the aneurysm. The location of the aortic aneurysm determines its type:
An aortic aneurysm can occur in a weakened portion of the artery's wall and can develop in any section of the aorta, causing it to bulge outward and enlarge. Aortic Aneurysms are described by the location, the size, and the shape of the aneurysm. The location of the aortic aneurysm determines its type:
- Abdominal Aortic Aneurysms occur in the section of the aorta that passes through the abdomen
- Thoracic Aortic Aneurysms occur in any section of the aorta in the chest. Locations include:
- Aortic Root
- Ascending Aorta
- Aortic Arch
- Descending Aorta
- Thoraco-Abdominal Aortic Aneurysms occur in the lower part of the thoracic aorta and the upper part of the abdominal aorta
Aortic Aneurysm: Signs & Symptoms
Signs and symptoms depend on the location and size of the aortic aneurysm, and the individual's medical condition. Most aortic aneurysms do not cause symptoms until they are very large or develop a complication. If an aortic aneurysm dissects, the patient usually experiences severe pain. Signs and symptoms of aortic aneurysm may include any of the following:
- Chest pain or discomfort
- Trouble breathing which may be affected by position
- Trouble swallowing
- Hoarseness
- Heart murmur (abnormal changes in heart sound)
Aortic Aneurysm: Non-surgical Treatment Options
The complex nature of aortic disease and significant variations in presentation of individual patients requires a multidisciplinary approach that is unique and individualized and includes all aspects of surgical technique and lifelong medical treatment.
We provide surgical and medical consultation to review specific treatment strategies on a collaborative basis that will help confirm and characterize the aortic disease process in combination with optimal medical treatment and establish a surgical threshold.
- Watchful Waiting: "Watchful waiting" is commonly recommended for a patient whose aortic aneurysm is small and asymptomatic. In such cases, the physician will keep a close watch on the patient's condition with periodic CT or MRI scans, blood pressure control,treatment ofhigh cholesterolif indicated. Our patients receive life-long management with annual follow-up even after surgery
- Medication: You may be given medicine to slow the growth of your aortic aneurysm and decrease the risk of rupture. If the patient has hypertension, the physician may prescribe a blood pressure medication in order to reduce strain on the weakened portion of the aorta. A cholesterol-lowering medication such as a "statin" may also be prescribed. Recent advances have demonstrated that in certain, limited situations, medical management may in fact reverse the growth process.
