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Guilherme Mazui

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What is the Difference Between Aortic Dilation and Aneurysm?

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Aortic dilation and aneurysm are both conditions that involve the enlargement of the aorta, the main artery in the body. However, there are differences between the two:

  • Aortic Dilation: This refers to a dimension of the aorta that is greater than the 95th percentile for a normal person of the same age, sex, and body size. It is generally considered a less severe condition than an aneurysm.
  • Aneurysm: An aneurysm is defined as a localized dilation of the aorta that is more than 50% of predicted, which corresponds to a ratio of observed to expected diameter of ≥ 1.5. It is considered a more severe condition than aortic dilation and carries a higher risk of complications.

There are two types of aneurysms that require different surgical management:

  1. Supravalvular aneurysm: This aneurysm is treated by a simple supracoronary tube graft.
  2. Atherosclerotic aneurysm: This type of aneurysm requires a different approach, which may include rebuilding the aortic root and any damaged aortic valves or using grafts in the vessel.

If the aortic root dilation reaches 5 centimeters, surgery may be necessary. Treatment options depend on the size of the aneurysm and any other health issues a person may have. Unlike an aortic root aneurysm, aortic root dilation may not necessarily require immediate surgery.

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  • What is the Difference Between Aortic Dilation and Aneurysm?
  • Comparative Table: Aortic Dilation vs Aneurysm

    • Comparative Table: Aortic Dilation vs Aneurysm

    Here is a table comparing aortic dilation and aneurysm:

    Feature Aortic Dilation Aortic Aneurysm
    Definition Aortic dilation refers to a diffuse dilation of the aorta that is less than 50% of the normal aorta diameter. An aneurysm is a localized dilation of the aorta that is more than 50% of the normal aorta diameter.
    Risk Aortic dilation does not generally pose a significant risk of aortic dissection or rupture. Aneurysms beyond a critical limit of 50 mm are associated with a significant risk of aortic dissection or rupture.
    Types There are different forms of aneurysms, including true aneurysm (expansion of the inner lumen due to vessel wall expansion), false aneurysm (lumen enlargement caused by perforation), circumscript (localized) aneurysm, and diffuse aneurysm. There are no specific types of aortic dilation mentioned in the search results.
    Causes Aneurysms can be caused by factors such as genetic syndromes (e.g., Marfan's syndrome), familial clusters of thoracic aortic aneurysm, bicuspid aortic valve, inflammatory diseases (e.g., Behçet's disease, Kawasaki syndrome, and syphilis), trauma, and aortic surgery. The causes of aortic dilation are not elaborated upon in the search results.
    Treatment Treatment for aortic aneurysms depends on the size, location, and growth rate of the aneurysm, as well as the patient's overall health. Surgical intervention may be necessary for larger or rapidly growing aneurysms. Treatment for aortic dilation is generally not required, as it does not pose a significant risk. However, monitoring and management of underlying risk factors may be necessary.
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    Guilherme Mazui

    Guilherme Mazui is graduated in journalism from the Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG) and a master's degree in Communication from the University of São Paulo (USP). In addition, he has experience in advertising writing and has worked as a content editor in several companies.