Frequently Asked Questions

FAQs

• What is an abdominal aortic aneurysm?

  An abdominal aortic aneurysm is the enlargement of the aorta, which is the main blood vessel that flows from the heart to the stomach.

• What are the symptoms of abdominal aortic aneurysms?

  Abdominal aortic aneurysms usually grow slowly, and most have no symptoms. If a patient has an enlarged abdominal aortic aneurysm, the symptoms can include:

  • Back pain
  • Deep, consistent pain in the abdomen
  • Pulsation near the belly button 

• What is a thoracic aortic aneurysm?

  A thoracic aortic aneurysm is a weak, bulging spot in the part of your aorta that runs through your chest. Your aorta is the largest blood vessel in your body, carrying blood from your heart to the rest of you. When the wall weakens and stretches, it can grow over time and, in some cases, tear, which is why early diagnosis and treatment matter. Our Ochsner Aortic Center team watches these closely and creates a care plan made just for you. 

• What are the symptoms of a thoracic aortic aneurysm?

  A thoracic aortic aneurysm is similar to the abdominal aortic aneurysms where symptoms are not common. However, when a thoracic aortic aneurysm grows, patients can experience:

  • Chest pain
  • Back pain
  • Shortness of breath

• What is an aortic dissection?

  An aortic dissection happens when a tear forms in the inner layer of your aorta's wall, the largest blood vessel in your body. Blood then moves between the layers of the wall, which can affect how blood flows to the rest of your body. This is a serious medical emergency that needs prompt care, and our Aortic Center team is ready to act quickly to protect your health. 

• What is an aortic aneurysm?

  An aortic aneurysm is a bulge or weakening in the wall of the aorta, the body’s main artery. If it grows too large, it can rupture and become life‑threatening. 

• Is aortic disease hereditary?

  Yes. Aneurysms can run in families. Sometimes they are also associated with specific genetic conditions, such as Marfan syndrome, Loeys‑Dietz syndrome and Ehlers‑Danlos syndrome, which increase the risk of aneurysms and dissections. Family members may benefit from screening if a hereditary condition is suspected. 

• What is endovascular aortic repair (EVAR)?

  EVAR is a minimally invasive procedure used to repair abdominal aortic aneurysms. A stent graft is placed through small incisions in the groin to reinforce the weakened section of the aorta from the inside.

• What is thoracic endovascular aortic repair (TEVAR)?

  TEVAR is a minimally invasive procedure used to repair aneurysms or dissections in the thoracic (chest) portion of the aorta. A stent graft is guided through the blood vessels to strengthen the damaged area.

• What is a Physician-Modified Endograft (PMEG)?

  A PMEG is a customized stent graft that surgeons modify to fit a patient's unique anatomy. It allows minimally invasive repair of complex aneurysms near important arteries that supply the kidneys, liver and intestines.

• What is a Thoracoabdominal Branch Endoprosthesis (TAMBE)?

  TAMBE is an advanced device designed to repair aneurysms that span both the chest and abdomen. It includes built-in branches to maintain blood flow to vital organs while treating the aneurysm.

• What are the signs of an aortic emergency?

  Signs include sudden, severe chest, back, or abdominal pain; fainting; shortness of breath; rapid heartbeat; or symptoms of stroke. Call 911 immediately if these occur.