Your Care Instructions
A thoracic aortic aneurysm is a bulge in a blood vessel (aorta) in the chest. The bulge occurs in a weak spot in the vessel. A large aneurysm can be very dangerous. If it bursts, it can cause bleeding that leads to death.
A thoracic aortic aneurysm can be caused by an injury to the chest, hardening of the arteries, or an infection. Sometimes aneurysms run in families.
Small aneurysms may not need treatment. But you will need regular checkups to see how fast the aneurysm is growing. A large aneurysm may need surgery to repair the weak area of the aorta.
Follow-up care is a key part of your treatment and safety. Be sure to make and go to all appointments, and call your doctor or nurse call line if you are having problems. It's also a good idea to know your test results and keep a list of the medicines you take.
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