Ascending Aneurysm/Dissection

When a sack-like dilation forms in the wall of a damaged or weakened artery, it is called an aneurysm. Aneurysms can form on any arterial wall that has deteriorated over time because of high blood pressure, a hardening or narrowing of the arteries or other contributing factors. Ascending aneurysms involve the aortic valve and the major arteries leading to the head and arms. If the aneurysm ruptures or tears (known as dissection), it can be fatal unless emergency surgery is performed quickly.

Symptoms can include: Shortness of breath, dry cough, hoarseness and a pulsating pain in the chest or head. Other symptoms are specific to the location and type of aneurysm.

Surgery

To repair the damage, the enlarged section of the aorta is removed and replaced with a Dacron graft so blood can continue to flow normally. In some cases the aortic valve may be replaced or reimplanted during the procedure. Aortic dissections are life threatening and typically require emergency surgical intervention.

Medical Management

To manage aortic aneurysms or dissection, your physician may opt to control blood pressure by using medication. Other methods of controlling the disease are the use of alpha or beta-blockers or calcium channel blockers. Medical therapy doesn’t remove the need for surgery. It only decreases the expansion of an aneurysm.