The aorta is the large artery that leaves the heart and provides oxygen-rich blood throughout the body. The aortic valve is present between the aorta and the lower chamber of the heart, opening up to allow blood to flow out of the heart and closing to prevent backward flow of the blood into the heart. When issues occur with the aorta or aortic valve, surgery may be necessary.
Conditions Treated
The aorta experts at Tampa General Hospital’s Heart & Vascular Institute treat the following aortic diseases:
- Ascending and aortic root aneurysms
- Aortic arch aneurysms
- Thoracic aortic aneurysms
- Thoracoabdominal aortic aneurysms
- Abdominal aortic aneurysms
- Type A and type B aortic dissections
- Penetrating aortic ulcers (PAU)
- Intramural hematoma (IMH)
- Aortic occlusive disease
- Mycotic aneurysms/infected aortic grafts
- Aorto-enteric and aorto-esophageal fistulas
- Aortitis
Procedure Details
The specific issue that is being addressed will determine what type of aortic surgery needs to be performed. Below is a brief overview of some of the more common procedures:
- Aortic valve repair – This is done to treat leaking valves. A bicuspid aortic valve is repaired by reshaping the leaflets of the aortic valve so that the valve opens and closes completely.
- Open-chest surgery – Larger aortic aneurysms may be treated with open-chest surgery.
- Repair of valve tears or holes – Tears or holes in the valve leaflets are sewn with tissue patches.
- Aortic valve replacement – The damaged aortic valve is removed and replaced with either a mechanical, biological or human-donated valve.
What to Expect
If you are diagnosed with an aortic condition that requires surgery, you will meet with a vascular and/or cardiothoracic surgeon to discuss your treatment options. The surgeon will explain the planned procedure, including the risks and benefits, as well as any other options that may be available. You will likely also meet with an advanced practice provider (APP), such as a physician assistant or nurse practitioner, as well as the ambulatory nurse referral coordinator from the Aortic Disease Program. At your visit you will receive an educational booklet on Aortic Disease that explains the patient journey in depth.
Knowing what to expect before and after your operation can help your recovery go more smoothly. Ask questions and speak up about any concerns so that you feel confident and informed about your care.
Effectiveness
Aortic surgery generally has a high long-term survival rate. Your specific outcome will depend on your lifestyle following surgery and the team of doctors performing the procedure. Tampa General Hospital’s Heart & Vascular Institute has highly experienced surgeons and advanced technology, allowing us to perform complex heart procedures, including aortic surgery.