What is an Aortic Aneurysm

An aortic aneurysm is a weak, bulging area in the wall of the aorta. The bulging develops from a 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 greatest danger is that an aortic aneurysm will rupture. This will cause heavy, uncontrollable bleeding.

Atherosclerosis is frequently associated with an aortic aneurysm. However, it is not thought that Atherosclerosis alone causes the growth of an aortic aneurysm. It is believed that other factors, such as high blood pressure or connective tissue disorders, must be present for an aortic aneurysm to form. Treatment for an aortic aneurysm include surgery and stenting.

Reference for Aortic Aneurysm Article

National Institutes of Health

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