What is an aneurysm and how is it treated?
An aneurysm is a balloon-like bulge that can occur in blood vessels anywhere in the body. An aneurysm is created when the pressure of blood flowing through a weakened blood vessel forces part of the vessel to bulge outward. They usually form in the brain or the aorta (the main artery of the heart), and are often associated with other types of cardiovascular disease, such as high blood pressure. Not all aneurysms are life-threatening, and treatment depends on its size and location. Treatment for aortic aneurysms can include surgery to repair the blood vessel and stop the aneurysm from bursting or cardiac catheterization to permanently implant a stent at the site of the aneurysm. The stent (a small, stainless steel mesh tube) acts as a barrier between the blood and the arterial wall, decreasing pressure on the wall of the weakened artery and preventing it from rupturing or bursting.
An aortic aneurysm is a weak, bulging area in the wall of the aorta. The bulging develops from a weakness or defect in the aortic wall and tends to get bigger with time. The aorta is the body’s largest artery. It carries blood from the heart for delivery to the rest of the body. The aorta travels through the chest (thoracic aorta) and the abdomen (abdominal aorta). Abdominal aortic aneurysms are more common than thoracic aortic aneurysms.
