Specialists at our Aortic Center focus on the treatment of aortic conditions. The largest artery in the body, the aorta is responsible for pumping blood from the heart to other arteries throughout the body.
Aortic disease can affect anyone, but it is most often seen in men 40 to 70 years old. The exact cause is unknown, but risks include hardening of the arteries, high blood pressure, smoking and a family history of aortic disease. Causes of aortic disease include injury, infection and weakening of the artery wall.
aneurysm
We provide leading-edge care for the following aortic conditions. All of the following are potentially dangerous, even life-threatening, if left untreated.
Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm
An abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) is a bulging, weakened area in the wall of the aorta that results in an abnormal widening or ballooning greater than 50 percent of the normal width. This occurs in the abdominal area. It can affect anyone but is most often seen in men 40 to 70 years old. The exact cause is unknown, but risks include hardening of the arteries and high blood pressure.
Thoracic Aortic Aneurysm
A thoracic aortic aneurysm (TAA) is a bulging, weakened area in the wall of the aorta that results in an abnormal widening or ballooning greater than 50 percent of the normal width. This condition occurs in the chest area. The exact cause varies, as it can be a result of a number of different disease processes and risk factors.
Aortic Dissection
An aortic dissection starts when a tear forms in the layers of tissue inside the aortic wall. This tissue is made up of three layers. When a tear forms in the innermost layer, blood is redirected into the aortic wall, which causes the tissue layers to separate. This leads to intense pressure in the aortic wall and a high risk of rupture. Left untreated, aortic dissection is a life-threatening emergency.
