An aneurysm occurs in a part of the large vessel that carries blood from the heart to other parts of the body (the aorta). Aortic aneurysms can develop in the area below the stomach (abdominal aneurysms) or the chest (thoracic aneurysms). An abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) is usually located below the kidneys. It can also occur in the heart's main pumping chamber (the left ventricle).

Treatment Options:

For thoracic aortic aneurysms, open-chest surgery involves replacing the weakened portion of the aorta with a fabric tube, called a graft. Depending on the location, surgeons access the affected area through the stomach (for abdominal aneurysms) or the chest (for thoracic aneurysms). The bulging section of the aorta is removed, and the missing piece is replaced with a graft. Clamps are then gradually removed to restore blood flow through the vessel.

In some cases, instead of removing the bulging section of the aorta, surgeons place a fabric graft inside the vessel to decrease the pressure on the arterial wall. This is called endo-aneurysmorrhaphy. If the aneurysm is located in the ascending aorta just above the heart, a heart-lung machine is used to support circulation during surgery.