[AORTIC ANEURYSMS. THE SILENT ENEMIES]

Aortic aneurysms are caused by a localized degeneration of the middle layer, which promotes the formation and progressive expansion of the aneurysm. In ascending thoracic aorta, usually have genetic cause, and intervene when they reach 5 to 5.5 cm in diameter. The downlink and abdominal aorta are associated with cardiovascular risk factors, especially age, smoking and hypertension. They are usually asymptomatic until rupture and diagnosis or is incidental or required before rupture performing an ultrasound scan in males over 65 who have been smokers. The alternative treatment to surgery in this location is with percutaneous self-expanding stent.