What is the correct cm in thoracic aorta ansersym to have surgery
Hello I'm 55 was diagnosed with a thoracic aorta ansersym 3years ago. I don't know how I got it. I don't smoke. When going to a cardiologist at a good hospital he said 6cm was surgery and I am 5.5cms . I have read several websites on surgery they say the cms I am now I should have had surgery . But the Dr says don't worry come back in another 2years. Well I decided to find another opinion. What do you think I'm lost on this I don't have any family left to help me with decisions.
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I would get a second opinion and not
Wait two years
Better safe than sorry
My aortic thoracic aneurysm was 5.5 when the doctor first found it back in 2017. My cardiologist suggested I should have open heart surgery. However, there is a high risk as the location of my aneurysm was at the arch. In addition, I also have calcification, the debris of which, if I do open heart surgery, might fall into my other organs such as lungs and kidney which might cause lungs and kidney failure. There is a 20% risk that I may have internal bleeding, fall into a coma, or die on the operating table. I have mixed feelings and decided not to take the risks and just enjoy life to the best I can. I was 70 years old then, and now I am 76.
Just last April I had my CT scan and its now 6.1.
Hello @dixitworld,
Each patient is different and their medical providers may have differing recommendations based on each patient's test results and circumstances.
As a gentle reminder, we must be careful about giving out medical advice per the Community Guidelines (https://connect.mayoclinic.org/blog/about-connect/tab/community-guidelines/). In particular: Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on the community.
Here is some general information from Mayo Clinic:
- https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/thoracic-aortic-aneurysm/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20350193
Surgery is generally recommended for thoracic aortic aneurysms about 1.9 to 2.4 inches (about 5 to 6 centimeters) and larger. Surgery may be recommended for smaller aneurysms if you have a family history of aortic dissection or a condition linked to aortic aneurysm, such as Marfan syndrome.
The type of surgery done depends on:
- The cause of the aneurysm.
- Your overall health.
- The location of the aneurysm.
@beverly48, it sounds like you have an open, ongoing dialogue with your cardiothoracic surgeon about operating on your aneurysm. While this decision is being made with your provider, have you been given precautions while you are in limbo or tips for preparation?
My cardiologist says 5.0 and we will talk surgery. I’m at 4.2 now
Yes I think 5.0 is the what most doctors and specialists say is the number to start a conversation about surgery. Some research I’ve done has the number much higher . Much depends I believe on your current health status , age and your ability to withstand the surgery and the recovery process. Best