Thoracic Aneurysm Rupture in Nice
Dr. Ilya Khantalin, Vascular Surgeon in the Alpes-Maritimes
Thoracic Aneurysm Rupture
Dr. Ilya Khantalin in Nice
Thoracic aneurysm rupture is a serious and potentially fatal condition involving the aneurysm of the thoracic aorta. This condition occurs when the aorta, the main artery carrying blood from the heart to the rest of the body, abnormally dilates, forming a bulge that may rupture. The risk of rupture is high and represents a medical and surgical emergency.
As a vascular surgeon in Saint-Laurent-du-Var, near Nice, Dr. Ilya Khantalin offers patients diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up for thoracic aneurysms. This page aims to explain in detail what a thoracic aneurysm is, the treatment indications, and the follow-up procedures.
Arterial diseases are now treated using modern techniques validated by the Haute Autorité de Santé (French National Authority for Health), with an approach favoring innovation and adherence to recognized surgical protocols.
Vascular diseases are recognized as Long-Term Conditions (Affections de Longue Durée – ALD), which means they are fully covered (100%) by French social security.
What is a Thoracic Aneurysm?
Vascular Surgeon in Saint-Laurent-du-Var
A thoracic aneurysm is a localized dilation of the aorta in the thoracic region, i.e., the upper part of the trunk. This dilation is due to a weakening of the aortic wall, which can occur gradually under the influence of various factors. The aneurysm may affect different parts of the aorta, such as the ascending aorta, the aortic arch, or the descending aorta.
When the aneurysm reaches a critical size, the risk of thoracic aneurysm rupture increases. The rupture is a medical emergency as it causes massive hemorrhage, often difficult to control, and can be life-threatening.
Diagnosis and Treatment of Thoracic Aneurysm Rupture
Vascular Surgery Specialist in Saint-Laurent-du-Var
Causes and Risk Factors
Several factors contribute to the development of a thoracic aneurysm and increase the risk of rupture. Main risk factors include:
- High blood pressure (hypertension): Elevated blood pressure can weaken the aortic walls, increasing the likelihood of aneurysm formation.
- Atherosclerosis: The buildup of cholesterol plaques in the arteries may contribute to aneurysm development.
- Heredity: Genetic conditions such as Marfan syndrome or Ehlers-Danlos syndrome can weaken the aortic wall.
- Age: The risk of developing an aneurysm increases with age, especially after 65.
- Smoking: Smoking is a major risk factor that promotes atherosclerosis and arterial wall deterioration.
- Family history: Having a family member with an aneurysm increases the risk for other relatives.
Symptoms of a Thoracic Aneurysm
In early stages, a thoracic aneurysm may be asymptomatic, making early detection difficult. As the aneurysm grows, certain signs may appear. The most common symptoms of a ruptured thoracic aneurysm include:
- Intense and sudden chest pain, often described as tearing or stabbing
- Back pain, with or without radiation to other areas
- Pain radiating to the back or abdomen
- Difficulty breathing, indicating compression of nearby structures
- Loss of consciousness or shock due to internal bleeding
- Tachycardia and hypotension, related to rapid blood loss
In the presence of such symptoms, immediate medical attention is crucial to improve survival chances.
Diagnosis of Thoracic Aneurysm Rupture
The diagnosis relies on clinical examination, medical history, and imaging studies. Medical imaging is essential to visualize the aneurysm and assess its size, location, and condition. Common exams include:
- CT scan with contrast injection (Angio-CT): Provides precise localization and measurement of the aneurysm
- Transesophageal echocardiography: Allows visualization of the aorta and detection of an aneurysm
Treatment of Thoracic Aneurysm Rupture
Treatment is typically surgical and must be performed urgently. Depending on the location, size, and severity of the aneurysm, different approaches may be used:
Open Surgery:
- If the aneurysm is diagnosed before rupture, a surgical procedure may be performed to repair or replace the dilated portion of the aorta using a graft.
- This procedure is performed under general anesthesia and involves opening the chest and using extracorporeal circulation (heart-lung machine).
Endovascular Surgery with Stent-Graft Placement:
- Increasingly used, this method involves inserting a stent-graft through the arteries to reinforce the aorta without opening the chest.
- It helps exclude the aneurysm from blood circulation, reducing postoperative pain and hospital stay duration.
The choice of technique depends on the aneurysm’s characteristics, the patient’s general condition, and available resources.
Postoperative Monitoring and Prevention
Post-surgical follow-up is essential to ensure the success of the procedure and prevent further complications.
Follow-up includes:
- Regular check-ups with a vascular surgeon and cardiologist
- Routine imaging tests (CT scan, ultrasound) to verify the repair
- Blood pressure monitoring: strict control of hypertension is critical to reduce stress on the aorta
- Clinical evaluation of the patient’s recovery and detection of early complications
Adopting a healthy lifestyle is also recommended, including a balanced diet, smoking cessation, and moderate physical activity when possible.
Thoracic Aneurysm Rupture: A Life-Threatening Emergency
Thoracic aneurysm rupture is a severe medical emergency. If detected in time, it can be treated effectively through specialized surgical intervention.
As a vascular surgeon in Saint-Laurent-du-Var, Dr. Ilya Khantalin offers precise diagnosis and individualized management for each patient. Rigorous post-intervention monitoring is essential to ensure long-term stability and health for patients who have experienced thoracic aneurysm rupture.
For any questions or consultations regarding thoracic aneurysms, do not hesitate to book an appointment with Dr. Ilya Khantalin, vascular surgery specialist in Saint-Laurent-du-Var.