Positive Correlation Between Thoracic Aortic Diameter and Intracranial Aneurysm Size-An Observational Cohort Study

Area of Science:

• Cardiovascular Research
• Neurosurgery
• Radiology

Background:

• Intracranial aneurysms (IAs) are a significant cause of cerebrovascular disease.
• Thoracic aortic diameter is a key indicator of cardiovascular health.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the association between intracranial aneurysms (IAs) and thoracic aortic diameter.
• To determine if thoracic aortic dimensions correlate with IA size and rupture status.

Main Methods:

• Observational cohort study involving 409 patients with IA.
• Thoracic aortic diameters measured and categorized by IA size (<7 mm and ≥7 mm) and IA status (ruptured/unruptured).
• Binary and linear regression analyses (univariate and multivariable) used to assess associations.

Main Results:

• Patients with IA ≥7 mm had significantly greater thoracic aortic diameters.
• Ascending aorta, aortic arch, and descending aorta diameters were associated with IAs ≥7 mm (univariate analysis).
• Larger ascending aorta, aortic arch, and descending aorta diameters were independently associated with ruptured IA (multivariable analysis).

Conclusions:

• Increased thoracic aortic diameter is associated with a higher risk of larger IAs and IA rupture.
• Findings suggest a potential concomitant growth tendency between IA and thoracic aorta.
• This association may inform future screening protocols and risk management strategies for patients with IAs.