What Are the Treatments for an Aortic Aneurysm?

An aortic aneurysm develops when your aorta develops a bulge. Your aorta is a major life line in the supplying of blood throughout your body. If you develop an aneurysm that ruptures within your aorta, this could be disastrous. In some cases, an aortic aneurysm may grow slowly and not rupture. Depending on the size and how fast your aneurysm is developing, and the location of your aneurysm, treatment will vary. Close attention will be given towards your condition, especially if the need arises for emergency surgery.

Abdominal Aortic Aneurysms

• When your aorta runs towards your abdomen, this section of the aorta is called the abdominal aorta. An abdominal aortic aneurysm occurs when the lower portion of your aorta becomes enlarged. Arteries within your body are elastic and stretchy. Over time, your arteries can develop weakened areas that distend like a balloon. In many instances, an abdominal aortic aneurysm is detected during a routine exam, or when you've taken an X-ray. After the aneurysm has been detected, your physician will have you undergo testing to determine the best possible treatment.

Observation

• According to the Mayo Clinic, if your abdominal aorta aneurysm proves to be small (about 1.6 inches), your physician will begin the monitoring of your aneurysm. Your physician may decide not to operate immediately because of the risk associated with operating on an aneurysm. Surgery on an aneurysm can prove to be risky due to the potential development of blood clots that can travel to other areas of your body, such as your legs, toes, or abdominal organs. Observation can take place every 6 to 12 months to check the progression of your aneurysm.

Large Anerurysm

• Larger abdominal aneurysms can be treated one of two ways. Surgery is necessary if you've developed an aneurysm over 2 inches. The damaged aorta is completely removed during and open chest procedure, and the aorta is replaced with a graft. In a less invasive surgery known as endovascular surgery, your physician will place a stent graft into your aorta. A catheter placed within an incision (usually your groin), guides the stent graft into place. According to the Cleveland Clinic, a stent graft is placed within your aorta to open up the affected part of the aorta. This graft helps to stabilize the weakened area of your aorta.

Thoracic Aorta Aneurysm

• The section of aorta that is known as the thoracic aorta is closest to your chest. A thoracic aortic aneurysm can be life-threatening if the aneurysm ruptures or dissects (tears). A thoracic aortic aneurysm can develop when your arteries become hardened. According to the Cleveland Clinic, the arteries can become hardened due to smoking, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, being overweight, or heredity. Surgery is the usual course of treatment in aneurysms that are larger than 2 inches.

Thoracic Surgery

• If you have a thoracic aortic aneurysm, careful consideration will be taken in the approach of your treatment. Surgery can be done depending on the size and location of the aneurysm, or if the surgery is necessary in an emergency. A thoracic aortic aneurysm can be repaired with emergency surgery. However, according to the Mayo Clinic, the chances of surviving this type of procedure are very slim. If you have a condition known as Marfan syndrome, this can make surgery difficult as well. When you have Marfan syndrome, the connective tissues within your body lack substance and weaken your arteries.