What is an aneurysm of the aortic root?
An aneurysm is a ballooning of a blood vessel. This process may occur in any artery in the body. When it occurs in the aortic root, it is called an aortic root aneurysm. The bulging of the aortic root can lead to several serious problems. As the aorta dilates, the risk of rupture (breaking open) increases. An aortic rupture is typically fatal. The risk of rupture becomes quite high when the maximal (greatest) diameter of the aorta reaches five centimeters. An aortic aneurysm also increases the risk of a dissection, or tear in the wall of the aorta, as the bulging increases. An aortic dissection is also a life threatening emergency and can lead to a full rupture. Finally, an aneurysm can dilate the base of the aortic valve, causing aortic valve regurgitation. With regurgitation, the valve fails to adequately seal, allowing the reverse flow of blood and resulting in an inadequate blood flow to the body. As this process ensues, the heart may enlarge and result in congestive heart failure.
