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Aneurysm of the ascending aorta
Aortic Aneurysms | Last Active: Sep 19 12:22pm | Replies (34)Comment receiving replies
Something to be aware of in aneurysm measurements is that the MRI and Echo measure differently. One measures straight across the aorta and the other measures on the diagonal so will always have a higher number. So we can't compare the two and think our aneurysm size has had a sudden growth spurt.
My ascending aortic aneurysm is at 4.4, which is up from 4.3 two years ago. I expressed concern to my cardio and she said that amount of growth is insignificant. Another cardio described the aneurysm as "small".
I understand that aneurysm repair is a big surgery (and I don't know how long a repair is expected to last). I think unless there is another issue, a well regarded cardio surgeon will not repair the aorta at this size. Watchful waiting seems to be the protocol. I am 78 and am hoping I kick the bucket of some other issue well before I need this surgery.
I understand your concern and your desire to take control of the situation and just get it fixed. But I'm not sure getting it fixed at this stage is my best option. I wish you good health and slow growth to the aneurysm.
Donna
Replies to "Something to be aware of in aneurysm measurements is that the MRI and Echo measure differently...."
Thank you very much for explain why there’s a difference in aneurysm measurements. My aneurysm measurements on my ascending aorta:
8/23/24: 4.0
6/25/25: 4.5
Growth = .5 in 10 months = .05 per month
My cardiologist said that she was concerned because is enlarging more than expected. I also determined that aortic disease runs in my family.
I’m 74 and will be having my first appointment with an interventional cardiologist at Mayo Clinic in Phoenix on 9/19/25. I’ll have an ECG at 8 am and the cardiologist will see me later that afternoon.
My cardiologist in Kentucky said I need to have a heart catheterization because that’s always needed before open hearts surgery.
Often times, I feel like I’m a walking time bomb. I’m curious how others with an aneurysm on their ascending aorta reframe daily life. I do try all the positive things of saying I’m just blessed that I’m alive at this age. However, some days feae just gets to me more than others.
Blessings & Blue Skies
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Donna, thanks for your comments. Unfortunately, my ascending aorta grew from 4.4cm to 4.8cm in one year or a 9% which is significant. The initial measurement was done via a CT calcium screening which is now being compared to two echocardiograms. In any event, the MRA (a form of an MRI and performed with the same machine but takes more detailed images of the blood vessels versus the organs or tissue surrounding them) will be done on March 15 and will give me and the surgeon a better idea of the state of the aorta and how to proceed from here.
Good luck with your ascending aortic aneurysm. It's good that it's not dilating rapidly.