Is surgical treatment for dilated ascending aorta risky?
May 11, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Tian Hongbo
Introduction
Surgical treatment for dilated ascending aorta is generally quite risky. Since the blood flow in the ascending aorta must be interrupted during surgery, it is essential to protect the heart, brain, spinal cord, and internal organs from ischemic and hypoxic injury. After surgery, patients should rest adequately and avoid strenuous exercise or heavy physical labor. A light diet is recommended, with low-salt and low-fat foods to reduce cardiac load.
Surgical treatment for dilated ascending aorta is generally considered quite risky. The specific details are as follows:
The ascending aorta is part of the body's main artery and the thickest blood vessel in the human body, directly connected to the left ventricle of the heart. Dilation of the ascending aorta refers to an enlargement observed via echocardiography or chest CT, which may be caused by conditions such as hypertension, aortic dissection, aortic aneurysm, aortic valve stenosis, or coronary atherosclerotic heart disease. The surgical procedure typically involves replacement of the ascending aorta with a synthetic graft. If the ascending aorta ruptures during surgery, it may lead to massive hemorrhage or severe aortic valve regurgitation, potentially causing serious damage to cardiac function. Therefore, this surgery is generally considered high-risk.
During the operation, blood flow through the ascending aorta must be interrupted, so special care must be taken to protect the heart, brain, spinal cord, and internal organs from ischemic and hypoxic injury. After surgery, patients should rest adequately and avoid strenuous physical activity or heavy labor. A light diet is recommended, with low salt and low fat intake to reduce the heart's workload.
