Thoracoabdominal Aortic Surgery

Highly Specialized Treatment for Chest & Abdominal Aneurysms

The aorta — the main artery that channels blood from the heart into the rest of the body — consists of two sections: the thoracic aorta in the chest and the abdominal aorta.  Together, they are called the thoracoabdominal aorta.

An aneurysm is caused by weakened and bulging areas in the abdominal or thoracic aorta, which may balloon irregularly as blood passes through. When an aneurysm bursts (ruptures) or tears (dissection), it can cause a life-threatening emergency.

Treatments for thoracoabdominal aortic aneurysm

Wellstar’s cardiovascular specialists perform several types of highly specialized thoracoabdominal aortic procedures. Which is best for an individual is based on a person’s unique medical history and other personal factors.

• Open abdominal aortic repair. To perform this surgery, a vascular surgeon opens the abdomen and inserts a tube — or graft — to repair the aneurysm.
• Endovascular Aortic Aneurysm Repair (EVAR). In some cases, a less invasive option is available. A vascular surgeon threads a thin tube — or catheter — through the groin to place the graft and repair the abdominal aneurysm. Our surgeons are skilled in utilizing fenestrated and branched grafts, allowing more treatment options for patients, and possibly avoiding open surgery.
• Hybrid elephant trunk repair. For some patients with extensive aneurysms involving both the ascending thoracic and abdominal aorta, this multidisciplinary surgical approach is preferred. A cardiac surgeon makes a chest incision and replaces the ascending aorta with a graft and then places a second graft that hangs down into the descending aorta. A vascular surgeon then places a graft into the descending aorta utilizing a catheter through the groin. Ultimately, the two grafts are connected to repair the aneurysm.

Our aortic disease experts are here to help people with thoracoabdominal aortic aneurysms understand their options and receive the right treatment.

Cardiac rehabilitation after surgery

To assist in regaining your strength after surgery, your cardiac surgeon may recommend Cardiac Rehab at one of Wellstar’s many outpatient locations. The Cardiac Rehab team can work with you to develop an exercise regimen, monitor you during your exercise sessions and provide support and education to help you live a healthier life.


Learn more about Wellstar’s Comprehensive Aortic Program.