Aortic Aneurysm Flashcards
What is an ascending aortic aneurysm?
Ascending aortic aneurysms is defined as an enlargement (in width and/or in length) of a weakened area in the ascending aorta (normal aorta size in men: <40mm, and in women: <36mm).
This is associated with degenerative changes in the elastic media.
What are the common sites of thoracic aortic aneurysms?
Aortic root, ascending aorta, aortic arch and descending aorta
What is the primary risk of aortic aneurysms?
The primary risk of aortic aneurysms is of aortic rupture, which may be fatal dependent on size of rupture. Additionally, thrombus may develop within the aneurysm, which can embolise to other arteries causing obstruction.
What are the symptoms?
What are the signs?
What are the risk factors?
What are the investigations?
What is the management of aortic aneurysms?
