Aortic Interventions
Aorta is the largest artery (blood vessels that carry oxygenated blood from your heart to your body) in your body. Aorta extends from the heart to the level of the umbilicus. Dilatation of the aorta beyond its normal diameter is referred to as aneurysms.
Most commonly, aortic aneurysms are asymptomatic. However, when symptomatic, symptoms can include abdominal pain, back pain, or pulsation near the belly button.
Aortic aneurysms can occur anywhere along the aorta but are most common in the abdomen. Risk factors for developing aortic aneurysms include smoking, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, age, male gender, white race, family history, and presence of other aneurysms. Aneurysms can also be related to trauma or infection.
Aortic aneurysm can have complications including rupture and dissection (tear in the layers of the wall of the aorta). Aortic aneurym ruptures can be fatal due to massive bleeding.
Life style modifications as well as medical management are recommended to prevent aortic aneurysms, which include:
- Smoking cessation
- Diet modification. Diet low in saturated fat, trans fat, and salt with plenty of fruits and vegetables is recommended.
- Blood pressure control
- Diabetic and sugar control
- Cholesterol management
- Regular exercise
North County Vascular & Interventional specialists have performed over 500 aortic interventions and are experts in endovascular minimally invasive treatments of aortic aneurysm including complex aneurys. If you have an aortic aneurysm and would like a consultation with one of our expert vascular specialists, please contact us for a consultation.