Geometric characteristics of the thoracic aorta in patients with ascending aneurysm

Objective . An analysis of the size of the aorta is an important criterion in determining the treatment strategy, however, modern research increasingly emphasizes the importance of a comprehensive analysis of the geometric characteristics of the thoracic aorta, including its length and spatial configuration. Purpose of a study: to analyze the geometric parameters of thoracic aorta in patients with ascending aneurysm. Material and methods . The study included 70 patients with ascending aortic aneurysm. The patients were divided into two groups depending on the length of the ascending aorta (from the aortic valve to the mouth of the brachiocephalic trunk): less than 111 mm (normal aorta, n = 33) and more than 111 mm (elongated aorta, n = 37). A comparative analysis of the clinical, demographic and instrumental data of patients in both groups was carried out. Results . With a comparable diameter of the aortic root, arch, and descending section, the tubular section of the ascending aorta was statistically significantly larger in patients with an elongated aorta compared to patients with normal aortic length – 52 (49; 55) mm vs 49 (47; 52) mm (p = 0.048). When assessing the length of the thoracic aorta segments, it was noted that the total length of the ascending aorta was 119.2 (114; 125) mm and 102 (89; 107.9) mm (p = 0.008) in the groups of the elongated and normal aorta. It is noted that aortic elongation occurs due to both the root and the tubular part of the ascending aorta. At the same time, the length of the arch and descending thoracic aorta was comparable between the analyzed groups of patients. Conclusion . According to the data obtained, it should be noted that in patients who have not reached the threshold recommended for surgical treatment, the length of the aorta significantly exceeds normal values. To assess the risk of adverse aortic-associated events in patients with ascending aortic aneurysm, it is necessary to analyze not only the size of the aorta, but also its length.