Aortic Aneurysm - Types - Types

There are two types of aortic aneurysm: thoracic aortic aneurysm and Abdominal aortic aneurysm. Until recently, it was thought that thoracic aortic aneurysms and abdominal aortic aneurysms were due to the same cause. Now we know that the two types are separate diseases with different risk factors and causes.

Abdominal aortic aneurysm
- Aortic Aneurysm - Types

The most common place for an aneurysm is the part of the aorta that runs through the abdomen, called the abdominal aorta. The abdominal aorta provides oxygen-rich blood to the tissues and organs of the abdomen and lower limbs.

Thoracic aortic aneurysm
- Aortic Aneurysm - Types

A thoracic aortic aneurysm is a less common aneurysm that occurs in the chest portion of the aorta, above the diaphragm.

Aortic aneurysms.
Aortic aneurysms. Figure A shows the thoracic and abdominal sections of a normal aorta. Figure B shows a thoracic aortic aneurysm. The one in this figure is located behind the heart. Figure C shows an abdominal aortic aneurysm.

Why are aneurysms more common in the abdominal aorta than in the thoracic aorta?

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