5.2 ascending aortic aneurysm- waiting for surgery (?)

You’re asking a smart question. With an ascending aneurysm now at 5.2 cm, a leaking St. Jude valve, and an enlarged left ventricle, I think there’s a real argument for acting sooner—especially if you're still strong and surgical candidates your age are doing well. The traditional 5.5 cm threshold isn’t a hard line for everyone, and in cases like yours, some top thoracic teams will recommend earlier surgery based on valve history, LV size, or overall risk profile. Waiting carries the known risk of rupture or dissection, and that risk doesn’t go away just because you haven’t hit 5.5 cm. That would be potentially fatal. If you're in good shape and you've got access to a solid surgical team, doing this on your own terms rather than in a crisis may be the safer move. I had emergency surgery in 2015 for an aortic dissection I didn’t see coming. If I could’ve had a warning like you have, I wouldn’t have waited. Peace.

I agree with Moonboy. I think its time to talk to an experienced cardiovascular surgeon and act. Consider as large of a bioprosthetic aortic valve that is practical. I have an Edwards valved conduit that is 27mm. I don't have to take thinners other than 81mg asprin and its quiet. Its also large enough that if it needs repaired in 10 to 15 years, it can be done by TAVR procedure up to 2 or 3 times. I had the surgery 8 months ago at age 60. This thing can be repaired 2 or 3 times and the large ones last longer on average as well.

Six months ago I was in basically the same situation you are. I am 72 and had a 5.2 cm ascending aortic aneurysm and an aortic valve that needed repair. My cardiologist sent me to a thoracic surgeon and the surgeon said I was a boarder line case but he recommended surgery sooner rather than later. I agonized over it for a couple of months before deciding to have the surgery. The deciding factor for me was something the surgeon said. He said I would have to have surgery eventually and the older I got the more difficult the surgery and recovery would be for me, plus the ongoing risk of a dissection. I had my surgery on April 16th and everything went well. I was in the hospital for 5 days. It’s been 5 weeks since my surgery and I am doing cardiac rehab and feeling better every day. I am about 80 to 90% back to normal.

I wouldn't wait either. The younger, the faster the recovery and less surgical complications. Remember also your heart's life. the younger the better. Good luck.

This is encouraging. Thank you. I am 71, diagnosed bicuspid aortic valve for replacement and now CT scan showing a 4,7 aortic aneurysm. Dye no problem but noted attention to kidney reaction. Due for chat with cardio thoracic team mid June (public not private)but unsure they will look at both or just aorta at this time. non smoker, 120cmheight and 68 kg.