Thoracic Aortic Aneurysm (TAA)

Dre Sotiria Mastoraki, MD, PhD

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Thoracic aortic aneurysm (TAA) is a serious vascular pathology characterized by the dilatation of a part of the thoracic aorta, the main vessel that transports blood from the heart to the rest of the body. This dilatation is due to a weakening of the aortic wall, making it vulnerable to a rupture – a condition that can be fatal.

Vascular surgeon Sotiria Mastoraki possesses the experience and expertise necessary for the evaluation and management of thoracic aortic aneurysm, offering personalized care to each patient.

Causes and Risk Factors

The development of a thoracic aortic aneurysm can be linked to various factors, such as:

  • Atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries)
  • Hypertension (high blood pressure)
  • Smoking
  • Genetic disorders of the connective tissue (e.g., Marfan syndrome)
  • Trauma or infections of the aorta

Symptoms

Most thoracic aortic aneurysms develop slowly and often present no symptoms. Furthermore, no one can predict the growth rate of an aneurysm. The patient may present:

  • Pain in the chest or back
  • Hoarseness or cough
  • Difficulty breathing
  • Difficulty swallowing

The sudden rupture of the aneurysm can cause intense pain, a drop in blood pressure and/or loss of consciousness, and requires immediate medical intervention.

Diagnosis and Treatment

The diagnosis of thoracic aortic aneurysm relies on imaging exams, such as a CT scan or MRI. Treatment is directly related to the size and growth rate of the aneurysm. Small aneurysms can be subject to regular surveillance, while larger or rapidly growing aneurysms require surgical intervention, either by open surgical repair or endovascular graft placement.