Types of Aortic Aneurysms

An aneurysm refers to a condition where there is a bulging in the wall of an artery. Arteries, which carry oxygenated blood away from the heart to various areas in the body, can enlarge and burst, leading to serious internal bleeding, and even death.

Identification

• The wall of the aorta has three layers; the tough outer layer, a middle layer formed by smooth cells and a thin inner layer. The type of aortic aneurysm depends on the location in the aorta, the shape of the aneurysm and the conditions under which it occurred.

Types

• A true aortic aneurysm is one that penetrates all three layers of the aortic wall; a pseudoaneurysm occurs when just the tough, outer layer is involved.

Abdominal Aortic Aneurysms

• The most common type of aortic aneurysms, they occur in the section of the aorta that is in the abdomen; most abdominal aortic aneurysms are caused by atherosclerosis.

Thoracic Aortic Aneurysms

• Thoracic aortic aneurysms are most common in patients with connective tissue disorders, prolonged high blood pressure, or patients who have had previous injuries to that area.

Dissecting Aneurysms

• When there is a tear in the wall of the aorta, three layers separate from one another, causing the wall to weaken and enlarge.

Fusiform Aneurysms

• A fusiform aneurysm causes a localized widening or dilation of the artery. It looks like a symmetrical bulge, leaving the wall susceptible to rupture.