Aortic Aneurysm
What is it?
An aneurysm is an area of enlargement of a blood
vessel due to the weakening of the vessel wall
thus causing a bulge. If the aneurysm remains
undetected, the area could rupture which is
referred to as a dissection. In Cardiothoracic
Surgery we specifically deal with aneurysms in the
chest (thorax), not abdominal aneurysms. [These
may be referred to as an ascending aortic
aneurysm, or an aortic arch aneurysm] The type of
aneurysm refers to its location in the chest. For
example, an aortic arch aneurysm is a bulge along
the arch of the aorta.
What are the symptoms?
The symptoms of an aneurysm are often vague, or
nonexistent. In some instances if the aneurysm
grows rapidly, the patient may experience chest or
back pain.
Aneurysms are often without any definitive
symptoms. However, if the patient should have a
pre-existing medical condition such as Marfan's
Syndrome, they should be checked regularly with
chest x-ray or CT scan.
Diagnosis
Aneurysms are associated with certain medical
conditions, such as Marfan's Syndrome or untreated
hypertension. In the case of Marfan's, the patient
should be evaluated regularly with chest x-ray or
CT scan since aneurysms are very often without
definitive symptoms. In most instances aneurysms
are usually detected as a result of a chest x-ray
done for some other medical evaluation. It will
show up as a mass. A CT scan or an MRI is then
used to determine the exact size and location of
the aneurysm.
Treatment
If an aneurysm is diagnosed, a surveillance
protocol is initiated to chart the size of the
aneurysm along with medical management which may
include a combination of diet, exercise, and
medication aimed at reducing blood pressure. If
the aneurysm continues to grow and reaches the
calculated size (usually 6 cm) indicative of
possible rupture, then surgery is discussed with
the patient. Surgery is the only cure for an
aortic aneurysm. However, the timing of surgery is
based on the risk of surgery versus the risk of
rupture.
Surgical repair of the aneurysm is done through
an incision made along the left side of the chest,
under the arm (left lateral thoracotomy) and the
repair is made. Recovery from this procedure is
usually 5 to 7 day stay in the hospital with a 4
to 6 week complete recovery.
This information has been designed as a comprehensive and quick reference
guide written by our health care reviewers. The health information written
by our authors is intended to be a supplement to the care provided by your
physician. It is not intended nor implied to be a substitute for
professional medical advice.
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