Thoracoabdominal Aortic Aneurysm Repair (TAAA)

What is TAAA?

TAAA is an enlargement or ballooning in the aorta, the main artery in the body that supplies blood to the rest of the body. TAAA occurs in the thoracic aorta, the upper section of the aorta close to the heart and chest, and extends into abdominal aorta. If left untreated, the aneurysm 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.