Diseases of the main artery / aorta

The most common disease of the aorta is an enlargement of the entire vessel wall (aneurysm). If the enlarged aorta is not operated on in time, it can tear (aortic dissection). An enlargement of the aorta is usually an incidental finding. It usually causes no symptoms. From a certain size, it can lead to pain, breathing difficulties or coughing, depending on its location.

Depending on which part of the aorta is affected, it is replaced with a plastic prosthesis and/or fitted with a stent. In some cases, the enlargement can even affect the heart valve (aortic valve), so that this must also be treated.

• Replacement of the aorta, possibly in combination with a stent

• When diagnosing a dilated aortic vessel wall (aneurysm), the localization, size and extent are first determined using non-invasive imaging. Based on this data, the attending physician can assess the severity of the condition and plan the appropriate treatment. Whether an operation should be performed or not is always decided on an individual basis. The larger the diameter of an aneurysm, the greater the risk of a rupture.

• Aortic consultation: Consultation and check-ups in the event of an enlargement as well as check-ups after an operation on the aorta or after aortic dissection.

• Pre-operative cardiac surgery consultation: Before a planned heart operation, the cardiac surgery team takes a lot of time to explain the procedure to your patients and plan all the necessary examinations.