Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm (AAA)

An aortic aneurysm is a “ballooning” of the aorta that, if expanded far enough, can potentially rupture. Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm (AAA) is an enlargement, or bulge in the main artery in the body (aorta) that supplies blood to the rest of the body.  AAA occurs in the abdomen; if left untreated can rupture, leading to severe pain and lethal internal bleeding.

What is Aortic Disease?

Aortic disease is broadly defined as conditions affecting the aorta, the main and largest artery in the human body that supplies oxygenated blood to all of the body’s vital organs. When the aorta becomes diseased or damaged, the entire body’s blood supply can be jeopardized and can quickly transform into a serious medical emergency.

What is the Aorta?

The aorta starts at the root of the heart, where the artery is connected to the heart by the aortic valve. It hooks like a candy cane down the spine, sending blood to the brain, arms, spinal cord, visceral organs (intestines, liver, stomach), kidneys, and legs.