Ascending and Aortic Arch Aneurysms
An ascending aortic aneurysm is a bulge in the portion of the aorta closest to the heart.
The ascending aorta begins at the heart's left ventricle and extends to the aortic arch, or the bend in the aorta. The arch of the aorta gives off branches to the head and arms.
Aneurysms occur because of molecular and connective tissue changes in the wall of the aorta. These changes sometimes cause atherosclerosis and other times cystic medial degeneration, or a breakdown of the muscular layer in the aorta.
>Read more about research related to cystic medical degeneration.
Risk factors for ascending and aortic arch aneurysms
Ascending aortic aneurysms are the second most common aortic aneurysms, normally found in people in their 60s and 70s.
Risk factors for ascending aortic aneurysms include:
- age
- history of high blood pressure
- connective tissue disorders
- heart murmurs
Complications of ascending and aortic arch aneurysms
Aortic aneurysms are dangerous because they may overstretch the aorta, causing it to burst and spill blood outside of the aorta.
Because the aorta is the body’s main supplier of blood, a ruptured aneurysm can cause life-threatening bleeding.
About the UPMC Center for Thoracic Aortic Disease
The UPMC Center for Thoracic Aortic Disease treats a full range of disorders and diseases affecting the aorta, such as aneurysms and aortic dissection.
What distinguishes our program?
- Our multidisciplinary approach — integrated care designed so you can undergo a comprehensive evaluation at one location, instead of consulting many different specialists to address the various aspects of your disease.
- Our surgeons — actively involved in ongoing cardiovascular research to advance patient care and form new strategies to better manage thoracic aortic disease.
- Our minimally invasive procedures — such as endovascular thoracic aortic repairs using stent grafts, as well as aortic root reconstructions that preserve the aortic valve.
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