NewYork-Presbyterian. The University Hospital of Columbia and Cornell.

Cardiothoracic Surgery

Thoracic Aneurysm Endovascular Repair and Surgery

Back to the nypheart.org Home Page

At NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital, we have extensive experience with surgical repair of the thoracic aortic aneurysms—a potentially life-threatening condition— with the number of cases of thoracic aorta repair treated at NewYork-Presbyterian increasing yearly.

We offer a team approach to the treatment of thoracic aneurysm repair, including surgeons, anesthesiologists, intensive care physicians, and nurses.

In addition, for those individuals who might not be candidates for traditional open surgery, we offer the option of endovascular repair of thoracic aneurysms.

With the expertise of our specialists, and with early diagnosis, thoracic aortic aneurysms can be successfully repaired with good outcomes and with surgical mortality rates well below national standards.

What is a Thoracic Aortic Aneurysm?

A thoracic aortic aneurysm is dilation, bulging or ballooning of a weakened part of the aortic artery wall.

The normal pressure of blood from the pumping of the heart causes the weakened portion of the aorta to slowly stretch and bulge, leading to the formation of an aneurysm.

The key to successful treatment of thoracic aortic aneurysm is careful monitoring and referral for surgical consultation to avoid rupture of the aneurysm, a medical emergency requiring immediate surgical intervention.

Experts agree that aneurysms of greater than 5.5 cm in diameter should be evaluated for surgical repair because the risk of rupture increases with increasing size of the aneurysm.