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Thoracic Aortic Aneurysm

When the wall of an artery weakens, causing it to widen or balloon, it is called an aneurysm. Specifically, a thoracic aortic aneurysm is when this occurs in the largest artery in the body—the aorta, which passes through the chest (thoracic region).

Chances are, you’ve heard of instances where aneurysms have ruptured. This happens when the aneurysm grows rapidly and tears open. In other cases, the aneurysm may develop and expand, resulting in blood leaking along the aortic wall (aortic dissection). In both of these cases, symptoms begin immediately. Even so, some aneurysms develop over the course of many years and present few, if any symptoms. It’s important to be aware of the following symptoms in the event that an aneurysm begins to press on surrounding structures. Individuals may experience:

  • Problems swallowing
  • Stridor-breathing (high pitched breathing)
  • Swelling of the neck
  • Hoarseness
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Rapid heart rate or heart palpitations
  • Chest and/or upper back pain
  • Clammy skin

While the primary cause of a thoracic aortic aneurysm is hardening of the arteries, those with high cholesterol, chronic high blood pressure and smokers are considered at risk.

Proper diagnosis and treatment of aortic aneurysms require extensive knowledge and insight into the behavior of aneurysms. It is important to consider their size and the overall health of the patient as well as complications and risks associated with different methods of intervention.

General and Vascular Surgeon, Dr. Alan Benvenisty brings extensive experience with a unique perspective to the treatment of vascular disease, including the repair of thoracic aortic aneurysms. Whenever possible, Dr. Benvenisty values non-surgical or minimally invasive techniques, which is why many patients in the New York metropolitan and surrounding areas seek his expertise. Dr. Benvenisty is currently accepting new patients at his office on Amsterdam Avenue. Call today to schedule your appointment.

New York NY Ruptured Aortic Aneurysm Treatment

Treatment Options for Thoracic Aortic Aneurysms

For many patients, discovering that they have a thoracic aortic aneurysm is a shock, as most are detected on imaging screens performed for other conditions. If you find yourself in this predicament, it’s vital to seek treatment quickly.

Treatment depends largely on the location of the aneurysm. To better understand, consider the three parts of the aorta—the ascending aorta (moves upward towards the head), the aortic arch (the curved middle section) and the descending aorta (moves downward, towards the feet). Typically, when an aneurysm is detected in the ascending or aortic arch and is larger than 5 centimeters, surgery is often suggested to replace the aorta. On the other hand, when an aneurysm is discovered on the descending thoracic aorta, surgical options vary and endovascular stenting may be recommended. Less invasive, endovascular stenting can be placed without a major incision.

Options for the treatment of thoracic aortic aneurysms require careful consideration of an individual’s candidacy for specific methods, their overall health, pre-existing medical conditions and health history.

Bringing invaluable insight and expertise, Dr. Alan Benvenisty is a board certified general and vascular surgeon in New York City. Dr. Benvenisty stands by his philosophy of treating patients as individuals, and he takes ample time to understand their concerns. For this reason, many seek his expertise when it comes to critical conditions of the aorta, including aortic aneurysms and other vascular-type illnesses. To schedule your appointment with Dr. Benvenisty, contact our office on Amsterdam Avenue today.

Our Patient Reviews

Dr. Alan I. Benvensity MD

4.9 / 5.0

Based on 10 reviews

Max P.

Dr. Benvenisty is very professional and thorough. Listens to his patients and truly cares. Fantastic doctor and lovely staff

Andrew C.

Could not have asked for more. Genuinely passionate, skilled and cares about his patients.

Yossi S.

A doctor who gives the best care to his patients and treats the disease with best care and great staff.

Renata B.

Dr. Benvenisty was excellent and helped us with my husband's extensive leg swelling related to diabetes. We had another specialist who didn't help us last year. We're planning to stay with Dr. Benvenisty now! He's detailed oriented, matter-of-fact and friendly. An excellent doctor I would strongly recommend.

Kathrina

Dr. Benvenisty treated my mother in the ER during this time of the covid outbreak. He was a part of a fantastic team of doctors that were brought in to find out what was ailing my mother. He is first and for most experienced in many areas as my mother was diagnosed with pancreatitis. Although he transferred the surgery to another member of his team, he gave me his mobile and kept me informed of her condition/diagnosis at a time where I was unable to be with her myself because of this pandemic. His heart, compassion, understanding and bedside manner are things that I will not ever forget. He is an excellent doctor and truly a great human being.

Howard L.

Dr. Benvenisty is the most caring physician that I know. He is brilliant, highly ethical and trustworthy. His knowledge extends well beyond his specialty. He makes referrals to the best possible physicians. I know Dr. Benvenisty for 25 years and have complete confidence in him.

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440 West 114th St, Second Floor
New York, NY 10025

(212) 523-4706

Monday & Friday 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM