Aortic Aneurysm

What is an Aortic Aneurysm?

An aortic aneurysm is a bulge or enlargement in the aorta, the body’s largest artery. It occurs when the artery wall weakens, increasing the risk of rupture. Aneurysms can develop anywhere along the aorta but most commonly form in the abdomen (abdominal aortic aneurysm) or chest (thoracic aortic aneurysm). A rupture can cause life-threatening internal bleeding, making early detection and treatment essential.

What Are the Symptoms of Aortic Aneurysm?

Aortic aneurysms often develop without noticeable symptoms, but warning signs may include:

• Deep, persistent pain in the chest, abdomen, or lower back.
• A pulsing sensation in the abdomen.
• Shortness of breath or difficulty swallowing (thoracic aneurysms).
• Sudden, severe pain, which may indicate rupture.

If you experience these symptoms, seek immediate medical attention.

Risk Factors of Aortic Aneurysm

• High Blood Pressure — Increases stress on artery walls.
• Smoking — Weakens and damages blood vessels.
• Genetics — A family history raises the risk.
• Atherosclerosis — Plaque buildup can weaken the aortic wall.

Aortic Aneurysm Treatment Options

Step 1: Monitoring & Medication

Small, slow-growing aneurysms may only require routine monitoring with imaging tests. Medications can help control blood pressure and reduce stress on the artery walls.

Step 2: EVAR & TEVAR

A minimally invasive procedure called endovascular aneurysm repair (EVAR for abdominal aneurysms, TEVAR for thoracic aneurysms) may be performed for larger or high-risk aneurysms. A vascular specialist places a stent graft inside the aorta to reinforce the weakened section and prevent rupture.

Step 3: Open Surgical Repair

In cases where endovascular repair isn’t an option, traditional open surgery may be needed. This involves replacing the damaged section of the aorta with a synthetic graft.

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Why Choose VIS for Aortic Aneurysm Treatment?

Expert Vascular Team

Skilled specialists provide advanced, effective aneurysm treatment.

Minimally Invasive Care

EVAR and TEVAR reduce recovery time with excellent outcomes.

Personalized Treatment

Customized plans ensure the best care from diagnosis to recovery.

Advanced Technology

Cutting-edge imaging and techniques for precise, high-quality care.

Frequently Asked Questions About Aortic Aneurysm

How is an aortic aneurysm diagnosed?

Aneurysms are typically found using ultrasound, CT scans, or MRIs.

When is surgery necessary for an aortic aneurysm?

Surgery is recommended if the aneurysm is large, growing quickly, or at risk of rupture.

What is the recovery time after aneurysm repair?

Recovery varies; EVAR patients often return to normal activities within weeks, while open surgery requires longer recovery.

Is endovascular repair safe and effective?

Yes, EVAR and TEVAR are minimally invasive, have shorter recovery times, and offer excellent long-term results.

Can an aortic aneurysm be prevented?

While not all cases are preventable, lifestyle changes like quitting smoking, controlling blood pressure, and routine screenings help reduce risk.

Take the First Step

At Vascular & Interventional Specialists, we provide advanced, minimally invasive treatments for aortic aneurysms, offering safe and effective solutions to protect your health and prevent complications.

Contact us today or call (605) 217-5617 to schedule a consultation. Our team is here to help you take control of your vascular health with expert care you can trust.

If you experience emergency symptoms such as sudden, severe abdominal or back pain, fainting, or rapid heartbeat, call 911 immediately.

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