Overview
Sometimes the walls of an artery (the blood vessels that carry oxygen-rich blood to your body) may
become weak or injured. When this occurs, the artery can no longer handle the
normal force of blood pressing against it. This may cause a balloon-like bulge
in the artery, known as an aneurysm. They can cause dangerous bleeding if they
rupture or dissect, and can be life-threatening.
Most aneurysms happen in the aorta (the main artery that travels through your chest and abdomen). If an aneurysm occurs in the chest portion of the aorta, it’s called a thoracic aortic aneurysm (TAA). If it occurs in the abdominal portion, it is called an abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA).
Types of Aneurysm
There are several types of aneurysms that can occur, such as:
- Abdominal Aortic Aneurysms (AAA) is an
enlargement of the lower part of the aorta that extends through the abdominal
area.
- Thoracic Aortic Aneurysm (TAA) is an
enlargement of the upper part of the aorta that extends through the chest
cavity.
- Pseudoaneurysm is a leakage of arterial
blood from an artery into the surrounding tissue with a continuing
communication between the originating artery and the resultant adjacent cavity.
Symptoms of Aneurysm
Most aortic aneurysms don't cause
symptoms. At times, a physician may find an aneurysm when performing tests or
exams for other purposes. For people who do experience symptoms, these include
complaints of belly, chest, or back pain and discomfort. Aortic aneurysm symptoms
may come and go or stay constant.
In the most severe of circumstances, an
aortic aneurysm may burst or rupture, causing sever pain and bleeding. Unless
treated immediately, an aortic aneurysm may result in death.
State-of-Art Treatment
Options
When it comes to diagnosing and treating aortic aneurysm,
Hoag Heart and Vascular Institute is a nationally recognized leader. With its exceptional
team of physician
experts and staff, progressive technology, and state-of-the-art surgical
facilities, Hoag continues to lead the way in comprehensive vascular disease treatment
both locally and nationwide, including innovative hybrid surgical options that
may not be available at other centers. Learn more about the innovative
minimally invasive treatment options available at Hoag.
Learn more about Hoag Heart & Vascular Institute's top rated vascular disease program: