Aneurysm
What is an aneurysm? Thoracic Aortic Aneurysms are a dilation or growth of the aorta due to a weakening in the wall of the artery. The aorta carries the entire blood flow out of the heart and supplies blood and oxygen to the brain, chest and abdominal organs. As the aorta gets larger, there is a risk that the wall of the aorta can tear or burst.
As the aneurysm grows there can be symptoms of shortness of breath, especially if the associated valve is leaking. However, in most cases thoracic aortic aneurysms tend not to cause symptoms until it is too late. Thus, when diagnosed they should be followed by a specialized team. Relatives of patients with thoracic aortic aneurysms should undergo an elective screening test such as echocardiography, CT or MRI.
Aneurysms can occur in one or more of the various portions of the thoracic aorta:
Aortic Root Aneurysm:
Portion of the aorta closest to the heart and involves the arteries that supply blood and oxygen to the heart.
Ascending Aortic Aneurysm:
Curved part of the aorta in the front of the chest above the coronary arteries and before the arch.
Aortic Arch Aneurysm:
Part of the aorta that supplies blood to the head and neck.
Descending Thoracic Aortic Aneurysm:
Sstraight part of aorta in the back of the chest carrying blood to the lungs, spinal cord and abdomen. This is the portion from the Aortic Arch to the Diaphragm, the muscle that separates the chest from the abdomen.
