Ask a Texas Heart Institute Doctor
Informed patients make better patients.
Question:
I have Loeys-Dietz. At what diameter would my aortic root warrant surgery?
I am a patient with Loeys-Dietz. At what diameter should my aortic root be before surgery? I am 5'6", 130 pounds.
submitted by Laura from League City on 1/17/2014
Answer:
by Texas Heart Institute cardiovascular surgeon, Joseph S. Coselli, MD
For a Loeys-Dietz patient, 5'6" and 130 pounds, the size for surgery is generally considered to be in the 4.3-4.5 range. This is provided, of course, if the aorta is relatively stable and growing only very slowly. A quick jump in size over a relatively short period of time would increase our concern and operative intervention is on occasion, necessary to somewhat smaller diameter. Another factor that has to be considered is whether or not the patient has a family history of Loeys-Dietz syndrome and/or aortic problems with aortic dissection, rupture, or other issues arising at an aortic size lower than the 4.3-4.5 that I have stated. I certainly hope this is helpful. When surgery is necessary and can be done on an elective basis, aortic valve sparing with preservation of the leaflets and replacement of only the aneurysm is a strong possibility.
See also on this site:
Has your question or a similar one already been answered?
Search all the Heart Doctor questions and answers.
To search for a doctor or access St. Luke's physician referral service, use the "Find a Doctor" link at the top of this page.
Updated January 2014
