Thoracic & Abdominal Aneurysm

An aneurysm is a balloon like enlargement of an artery. The aorta is the artery that runs from the left ventricle of the heart through the chest and abdomen supplying oxygen rich blood to throughout the body. Aortic aneurysms occur more often than any other type of aneurysm. There are two types of aortic aneurysms: thoracic aortic aneurysms (TAA's) and abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAA's).

When the walls of the aortic artery become weak, they bulge and stretch. Aortic aneurysms can grow for an indefinite period of time and can go undetected if the aneurysm doesn't rupture or affect other organs. Aneurysms are often detected when a computed tomography (CT) scan is performed for other medical reasons. Without early detection, aneurysms can cause serious physical pain, restrict blood flow, cause heart disorders and can rupture causing life threatening hemorrhaging.

Thoracic Aortic Aneurysms

Thoracic aortic aneurysms make up 25% of all aneurysms and occur in the thorax or chest. TAA's are not detected often and do not cause significant symptoms in the early stages. When a TAA enlarges, it can interfere with functioning of the aortic valve. When the aortic valve cannot close properly because of a TAA, blood can flow backwards into the heart causing significant heart damage.

Abdominal Aortic Aneurysms

Abdominal aortic aneurysms make up 75% of all aneurysms and can occur in any part of the aorta that runs through the abdomen. Approximately 20% of all AAA's rupture, and AAA's tend to grow quite large because they tend to grow undetected. A ruptured AAA can cause internal bleeding and shock which can become life threatening if not immediately treated.

Surgical Treatment

Thoracic and abdominal aortic aneurysms are surgically treated with endovascular aneurysm repair using an endovascular stent. Dr. Gil Schorlemmer, Dr. Thorne, and Dr. Affleck specialize in endovascular aneurysm repair at Western Cardiovascular Associates. Whether you live in Salt Lake City, Ogden, or Utah Valley, or anywhere in the country, contact Western Cardiovascular Associates or call us at 801-743-4750 today.