How serious is aortic aneurysm?
A thoracic aortic aneurysm is a serious health risk because, depending on its location and size, it may rupture or dissect (tear), causing life-threatening internal bleeding. When detected in time, a thoracic aortic aneurysm can often be repaired with surgery or other less invasive techniques.
What is the main cause of aortic aneurysm?
Any condition that causes the walls of the arteries to weaken can lead to an aneurysm. Atherosclerosis (a build-up of plaque in the arteries), high blood pressure, and smoking increase your risk. Deep wounds, injuries, or infections can also cause blood vessels to bulge.
Is an enlarged aorta serious?
Thoracic aortic aneurysms are also known as ascending or descending aortic aneurysms. There is reason to be concerned if you have an aortic aneurysm: If the vessel becomes too large, it could rupture, which is extremely dangerous and can cause life-threatening bleeding.
What is the life expectancy after repairing an aortic aneurysm?
Although specific information about overall life expectancy after aortic dissection repair is not available, a recent study from the International Registry of Acute Aortic Dissection reported that about 85% of patients who have undergone successful repair of acute dissection involving the ascending aorta remain alive at 5 years.
How serious is an aneurysm in your aorta?
An aortic aneurysm is a very serious, potentially deadly condition, particularly when the diameter of the aneurysm grows to 5.5 centimeters. At this size, it is important to have the aneurysm fixed, as the yearly risk of rupture is high enough to warrant the risk of the surgery. If an aneurysm bursts, it is fatal in most people.
What is the prognosis of an aortic aneurysm?
The prognosis of an abdominal aortic aneurysm depends on the size and location of the aneurysm, in addition to various other patient-related factors. The risk of rupture, which in many cases leads to fatality, is mainly determined by aneurysm diameter.
What is the most common cause of an aortic aneurysm?
An aortic aneurysm develops from a weakness in the wall of the aorta. This weakness can be present at birth or can develop as the result of disease or injury. Atherosclerosis: A clogged or damaged artery from a condition called atherosclerosis is the most common cause of aneurysm.