Thoracic Aortic Aneurysm
A thoracic aortic aneurysm (TAA) is a bulge in the wall of the aorta, the main artery that carries blood from the heart to the rest of the body. The aorta is located in the chest cavity. A ruptured TAA can cause severe back or chest pain, difficulty breathing, and potentially fatal bleeding. Aneurysms often have no symptoms before they rupture, making screening important for those at risk.
Risk factors
- Smoking
- High blood pressure and/or cholesterol
- Family history
- Arterial disease
- Advanced age
- Male gender
- Trauma to the chest
Screening for Thoracic Aortic Aneurysms (TAAs)
TAAs are often detected during a CT scan or chest imaging performed for other reasons. Screening for a TAA can also be done as an outpatient procedure at various care locations. Our team of highly-trained physicians, technicians, and support staff will assess the best treatment options for you.
Medicinal and Lifestyle Management
Less severe, smaller aneurysms can be monitored with regular follow-up screenings to check for size and growth. Lifestyle changes to manage a TAA include quitting smoking, adopting a healthier diet, and, if necessary, taking medication to reduce blood pressure and/or cholesterol.
Interventional and Surgical Treatments
CMC provides minimally invasive, stent graft procedures to treat aneurysms. If your TAA is severe, you may need a bypass procedure to repair the aneurysm with a new section of blood vessel, called a graft. Our skilled team will work with you to determine the right treatment based on your symptoms, condition, and lifestyle.