Aortic aneurysms and dissections are serious conditions that affect the aorta, the largest blood vessel in the body. An aneurysm is a bulge or weakness in the wall of the aorta, while a dissection is a tear in the inner layer of the aorta that allows blood to flow between the layers.
Symptoms
- Severe, sudden pain in the chest, back, or abdomen
- Shortness of breath
- Dizziness or fainting
- Weakness or paralysis on one side of the body
- Difficulty speaking or understanding speech
- Loss of consciousness
Causes
- High blood pressure
- Atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries)
- Genetic conditions (e.g., Marfan syndrome, Ehlers-Danlos syndrome)
- Injury or trauma to the chest or abdomen
- Inflammation of the blood vessels (vasculitis)
Diagnosis
- Physical exam and medical history: Checking your symptoms and learning about your health background.
- Computed tomography angiogram (CTA): A detailed scan that shows the blood vessels and helps spot any problems.
- Magnetic resonance angiogram (MRA): A scan that uses magnets to create clear images of the blood vessels.
- Echocardiogram: An ultrasound that shows how your heart and aorta are working.
- Aortogram: An X-ray that looks at the aorta after a dye is injected to see any blockages or tears.
Treatment Options
- Physical exam and medical history: Checking your symptoms and learning about your health background.
- Computed tomography angiogram (CTA): A detailed scan that shows the blood vessels and helps spot any problems.
- Magnetic resonance angiogram (MRA): A scan that uses magnets to create clear images of the blood vessels.
- Echocardiogram: An ultrasound that shows how your heart and aorta are working.
- Aortogram: An X-ray that looks at the aorta after a dye is injected to see any blockages or tears.
Why Choose Us
Expert team
Our pediatric specialists have extensive experience in treating children.
Personalized care
We create treatment plans that fit each child’s unique needs
Support and education
We teach children and families how to care for them and prevent future cases
Advanced treatments
Access to the latest treatments and products
Contact
Please feel free to contact us with any general or medical enquiry by calling us.
