The Methodist Hospital System
The Methodist Hospital System. Leading Medicine

Methodist DeBakey Heart & Vascular Center

The Aortic Clinic

What is...

What is an Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm (AAA)?

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Abdominal aortic aneurysm involves a widening, stretching, or ballooning of the aorta. There are several causes of abdominal aortic aneurysm, but the most common results from atherosclerotic disease. As the aorta gets progressively larger over time there is increased chance of rupture.

Find out about the causes and symptoms of Aortic Dissection.

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What is Aortic Dissection?

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Aortic dissection is a condition in which there is bleeding into and along the wall of the aorta (the major artery from the heart). This most often occurs because of a tear or damage to the inner wall of the artery. Although aortic dissection can affect anybody, it is most often seen in men 40 to 70 years old. Symptoms usually begin suddenly and require prompt medical attention.

Find out about the causes and symptoms of Aortic Dissection.

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At the Methodist DeBakey Heart & Vascular Center, we believe that multidisciplinary approaches to treatment play a vital role in achieving superior outcomes. The Aortic Clinic combines patient-focused clinical care, advanced imaging, and surgical excellence to provide a centralized location where complex aortic diseases can be assessed and treated.

We provide patients with a focused, well-organized evaluation experience, plus clear communication about the severity of their condition and the recommended course of treatment.

Prior to consultation, all the patient's prior diagnostic studies will be requested and reviewed. If needed, additional diagnostic imaging will be performed. At the end of the evaluation, all appropriate therapeutic options will be presented to the patient and/or to his or her referring physician. The patient may also meet with a cardiovascular surgeon to further discuss the options for aortic treatment and/or intervention.

Depending on the severity of the disease and the needs of the patient, treatment may include one or more of the following options:

Medical Management

Medical management is an essential part of treating aortic disease and may be beneficial for its prevention as well. It involves strict adherence to a blood pressure management plan with close monitoring of the aortic disease process.

Minimally Invasive Surgery

Depending on the severity of the aortic disease, patients and physicians may choose to treat aneurysms with minimally invasive surgery (as opposed to an open surgical procedure). The Methodist DeBakey Heart & Vascular Center’s cardiovascular surgeons are expertly trained in these procedures, which include endovascular stent grafting, endovascular aneurysm repair (EVAR) in the abdomen, and thoracic endovascular aneurysm repair (TEVAR) in the chest area.

Open Surgical

Surgery is “the gold standard” for repairing abdominal aortic aneurysms, thoraco-abdominal aortic aneurysms, and ascending or descending aortic arch dissections or aneurysms.

Innovative Aortic Therapies

The Methodist DeBakey Heart & Vascular Center has advanced technology in our operating rooms and hybrid suites to support innovative aortic therapies. Current innovative therapies for the aorta include percutaneous aortic valve repair and branched endovascular stent grafting.

For more information about the Aortic Clinic, please contact us at 713-DEBAKEY (332-2539).

We offer same day appointments.