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Read MoreAn aortic aneurysm develops when your main artery weakens and bulges outward under pressure. Often symptomless at first, it can become life‑threatening if the bulge grows and ruptures, making regular monitoring and timely care essential.
What Is an Aortic Aneurysm?
An aortic aneurysm is a localized dilation of the body’s main artery caused by a weakness in the vessel wall. Over time, factors like high blood pressure, atherosclerosis, smoking and certain genetic disorders contribute to gradual wall degeneration. As the aneurysm enlarges, the risk of aneurysm rupture increases, sometimes leading to catastrophic internal bleeding and shock. In some cases, an arterial wall infection can result in a mycotic aneurysm or pseudoaneurysm, which carry their own unique risks.
Types of Aortic Aneurysm
There are several types of aortic aneurysms based on location and shape:
Abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA):
A dilation of the abdominal segment of the aorta, often detected by ultrasound screening to prevent rupture
Thoracic aortic aneurysm (TAA):
A bulge in the chest portion of the aorta that can progress to an aortic dissection if the inner wall tears
Thoracoabdominal aneurysm:
An aneurysm spanning both the thoracic and abdominal aorta, requiring careful surgical planning
Saccular aortic aneurysm:
A localized, pouch‑shaped outpouching of the aortic wall, increasing rupture risk at the narrow neck
Fusiform aortic aneurysm:
A uniform, spindle‑shaped dilation involving the entire circumference of the aorta
Dissecting aneurysm (aortic dissection):
A tear in the inner layer of the aortic wall allows blood to split its layers, causing severe pain
Pseudoaneurysm:
A contained rupture where blood collects between vessel layers or surrounding tissue rather than within all three aortic wall layers
Other types of aneurysms include peripheral aneurysms (popliteal or femoral) and mesenteric aneurysms, which occur in arteries outside the aorta.
What Are the Symptoms of an Aortic Aneurysm?
Many aortic aneurysms remain symptomless until they grow large or rupture, but possible warning signs include:
- Pulsating feeling near the navel
- Rapid heart rate and shock in the event of a rupture
- Deep, constant pain in the abdomen, back or chest
- Difficulty swallowing from compression of the esophagus
- Sudden, severe and sharp pain if the aneurysm dissects or ruptures
- Low blood pressure, dizziness or fainting, which are signs of internal bleeding
- Shortness of breath, cough or hoarseness if a TAA presses on the airways or nerves
- Sudden onset of weakness, numbness or paralysis, indicating blood flow to the spinal cord is affected
How Is an Aortic Aneurysm Diagnosed?
The doctor may begin by visualizing vessel size and wall integrity. If detected, computed tomography angiography (CTA) provides high‑resolution, cross‑sectional images that confirm diameter, shape and the involvement of branch vessels. Magnetic resonance angiography (MRA) offers a radiation‑free alternative, which is particularly useful in patients with contrast allergies or kidney issues. Invasive digital subtraction angiography can map complex anatomy before endovascular repair.
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Aortic Aneurysm Treatment Options
Minimally Invasive Endovascular Repair (EVAR/TEVAR)
Thoracic endovascular aneurysm repair (TEVAR) and EVAR are treatments that use a catheter in the groin to deliver a stent graft to reinforce the weakened section of the aorta. EVAR is used for abdominal aneurysms and TEVAR for thoracic aneurysms, offering a less invasive alternative to open surgery with significantly shorter recovery times.
Complex Endovascular Techniques
For aneurysms involving branch arteries or unusual vessel shapes, fenestrated stent grafts, with built‑in openings that align to side branches, and branched stent grafts, which incorporate side‑arms to vital vessels, preserve critical blood flow without open surgery. In the most complex cases, hybrid procedures can achieve a customized repair with minimal invasiveness.
Watchful Waiting and Risk Factor Control
Small aneurysms may not require surgery and are monitored with regular imaging. Blood pressure, cholesterol and lifestyle factors are monitored and managed to slow aneurysm growth.
Open Surgical Repair
The surgeon makes an incision in the abdomen or chest to remove the aneurysm and replaces it with a synthetic graft. This approach provides a durable solution for large or complex aneurysms that may not be suitable for less invasive, endovascular techniques.
Our Approach to Aortic Aneurysm Treatment
Inspira offers a comprehensive, team‑based approach to aortic aneurysm care, bringing together vascular surgeons, interventional radiologists, cardiologists, specialized nursing staff and more to deliver personalized treatment plans. From initial screening and diagnostic imaging through follow‑up surveillance, our coordinated care ensures you receive the right intervention. We use advanced imaging technology and evidence‑based protocols to monitor aneurysm size and growth, adjusting treatment recommendations to minimize risk and optimize outcomes.
With convenient access to care at multiple locations across South Jersey, we strive to make your experience as seamless and reassuring as possible, because managing aortic aneurysms is not just about treating the vessel, but supporting the whole person.
