What are thoracic aortic aneurysm and aortic dissection?
Thoracic Aortic Aneurysm and Aortic Dissection describe forms of aortic disease. When the walls of a section of blood vessel become weak and thin, it results in a bulging or ballooning of the vessel that is commonly called an aneurysm. Dissection is the tearing of a blood vessel’s inner lining, causing blood to leak between the layers of the vessel wall. An aneurysm may tear (dissect) or completely rupture. Under certain conditions, a blood vessel may dissect even when there is no aneurysm.
When the aneurysm and/or dissection involve the aorta (the main artery leading away from the heart), the bulging and tearing are considered among the most serious, life-threatening conditions. However, the diseased aorta can be successfully treated, especially when found before an emergency occurs. The US National Center for Health Statistics reports almost 15,000 aorta-related deaths (including both the thoracic and abdominal aorta) each year.
For more information, visit Aortic Dissection and Thoracic Aortic Aneurysm.
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