Aneurysm

Aneurysms can occur in arteries at the base of the brain. An aortic aneurysm occurs in the main artery carrying blood from the left ventricle of the heart.

When the size of an aneurysm increases, there is a risk of rupture resulting in severe haemorrhage (bleeding) bringing on additional complications or (in the worst case) death.

Aneurysms can be hereditary or caused by disease, both of which cause the wall of the blood vessel to weaken.

Related tests and scans

AAA (abdominal aortic aneurysm)

An AAA (Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm) scan will help you find out if you have any widening (aortic aneurysm) of your abdominal aorta.

Arterial mapping (or artery assessment)

The stretching of an artery, or an aortic aneurysm as it is known, occurs when the wall of an artery becomes thinner, causing the artery to expand.

CT calcium scoring (or cardiac calcium scoring)

CT calcium scoring is a CT scan to check for deposits or build-up of plaque on the walls of your coronary arteries (arteries that supply blood to your heart).

Related treatments and procedures

Aortic Root Repair

The aorta is the largest artery in your body.

Aortic aneurysm repair

An aneurysm is a thickening or bulge in the wall of an artery. In some cases surgical repair of the aorta may be necessary if an aneurysm is present.

An aneurysm is a thickening or bulge in the wall of an artery. If you have been diagnosed with an aneurysm your consultant may recommend an aortic stent graft (also known as endovascular aneurysm repair or EVAR).

Arterial Surgery

Assessment of all Aspects of Cardiology

Endovascular Aneurysm Repair (EVAR)

If you have been diagnosed with an aneurysm your consultant may recommend an endovascular aneurysm repair or EVAR.

Endovascular treatment

Endovascular treatments are minimally invasive procedures to treat problems with blood vessels.

Interventional cardiology

Interventional cardiology includes procedures performed on the heart using catheterisation (tiny, flexible tubes).

Interventional radiology

Interventional radiology is a minimally invasive alternative to open surgery that uses radiological image guidance (X-rays, ultrasound, CT and MRI) to aid treatment.