The Ohio State Aortic Center combines the expertise of highly skilled physicians including vascular surgeons, cardiac surgeons, cardiologists and cardiac anesthesiologists to provide a tailored approach to each patient’s care. This includes conventional surgery and new, minimally invasive procedures. In addition to scheduled aortic procedures, the Aortic Center also provides treatment for emergent and life-threatening aortic conditions with ability to accept transfers 24-hours a day.
About the aorta
The aorta is your body’s largest artery. Beginning at the heart, it extends down through the chest and abdomen. Numerous branches stem from the aorta, supplying essential blood flow to vital organs such as the brain, liver, kidneys, intestines, and to your arms and legs.
Aortic conditions
- Aortic Aneurysm – An aortic aneurysm occurs when the walls of the aorta weaken or bulge causing an enlarged artery with risk for rupture. Aneurysms most commonly occur in the abdomen but can also develop in the chest or near the heart.
- Aortic Dissection – A dissection is a tear between the first and second layers of the aortic wall. This can cause life threatening bleeding as well as blockage of blood flow to important organs. It presents with tearing back or chest pain and is considered an “aortic attack.”
- Aortic Occlusion – When the aorta becomes blocked because of a clot or slow development of atherosclerosis, which can cause pain in the abdomen or legs.
- Aortic Endoleak – If an aortic aneurysm has been previously repaired with a minimally invasive aortic stent, this can sometimes result in leakage around the stent. If the aneurysm continues to grow, additional surgery may be needed.
- Aortic Infection – Infection can occur in previous surgical repair of the aorta or in the native aorta. This can be a life-threatening condition which requires multidisciplinary evaluation and treatment.
Aortic treatment at the Ohio State Aortic Center
At your initial appointment, you will receive a thorough evaluation by a vascular surgeon, cardiac surgeon and medical management specialist. Same-day imaging is available to streamline the process and reduce the need for multiple appointments. If surgery is considered appropriate, you will be presented with several options, and we will carefully review the risks and benefits with both you and your family. Complex aortic surgeries are further discussed at our Multidisciplinary Aortic Center Conference, involving additional surgeons from both specialties and cardiac anesthesiologists. If immediate surgery isn't required, we'll provide recommendations for optimal medical management and establish lifelong surveillance through our Aortic Center, which includes annual or semi-annual testing and exams.
Why choose Ohio State for aortic treatment?
Aortic conditions are complex and best served by a multidisciplinary approach to treatment. Our dedicated team—including surgeons, cardiologists, nephrologists, anesthesiologists, radiologists, vascular radiology technicians, advanced practitioners and nurses—offers world-class, patient-centered care. This broad expertise allows us to effectively manage any aortic condition. At The Ohio State Aortic Center, we utilize cutting-edge technology, the latest minimally invasive devices, and participate in numerous clinical trials. We are committed to ongoing management and support for your aortic disease indefinitely.
