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Aortic Aneurysm

An abnormal enlargement of the aorta — the body's largest artery — that carries a risk of rupture.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Published:

This content is for general information; please consult your physician for diagnosis and treatment.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Kardiyoloji department. Book Appointment →

What is Aortic Aneurysm?

The aorta is the largest artery, carrying blood from the heart to the rest of the body. When a segment of the aortic wall weakens, a bulge (aneurysm) can develop. The most common sites are the abdominal aorta (abdominal aortic aneurysm) and the thoracic aorta (thoracic aortic aneurysm).

Small aneurysms usually cause no symptoms and may grow slowly over years. As an aneurysm enlarges, the risk of rupture increases; rupture results in life-threatening internal bleeding.

Ultrasound screening provides early diagnosis, particularly in men over 65 who smoke. Monitoring or surgical treatment is planned according to size thresholds.

Symptoms

Usually produces no symptoms (often found incidentally)
Throbbing pain in the abdomen or back (abdominal aneurysm)
Chest, back, or shoulder pain (thoracic aneurysm)
A pulsating mass felt in the abdomen
Sudden severe back or abdominal pain with shock (in rupture)
Hoarseness or difficulty swallowing (with a large thoracic aneurysm)

Risk Factors

Smoking (the most important modifiable risk factor)
Male sex and age over 65
Hypertension
Atherosclerosis and coronary artery disease
Family history of aneurysm
Connective tissue disorders such as Marfan or Ehlers–Danlos syndromes
Prior aortic infection (mycotic aneurysm)

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • Call emergency services for sudden severe back or abdominal pain
  • For regular imaging follow-up if an aneurysm has been diagnosed
  • Men over 65 who smoke should undergo screening
  • If there is a family history of aneurysm
  • For cardiovascular surgery consultation on the need for repair

Treatment Methods

01
Periodic ultrasound or CT surveillance for small aneurysms
02
Smoking cessation and tight blood pressure control
03
Open surgical aneurysm repair (traditional approach)
04
EVAR — endovascular aneurysm repair (less invasive, catheter-based)
05
Emergency surgery (in the event of rupture)
06
Medical therapy with beta-blockers and statins

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Kardiyoloji department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.