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A stitch in time saves lives: High survival seen for patients with condition that killed John Ritter

Researchers found that 90% of patients who survived emergency surgery and hospitalization for aortic dissection would be alive three years later. Those without pre-existing heart and blood vessel problems were more likely to survive, with a quarter having hypertension and nearly 25% having atherosclerosis before their dissection.

Delayed aortic trauma repair may improve survival

Researchers at the University of Cincinnati found that delaying aortic trauma repair can lead to better survival outcomes for patients with certain injuries. Dr. Amy Reed's study analyzed 51 cases and found that 54% of patients who underwent delayed endovascular repair survived, compared to 38% of those who received immediate open repair.

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·JournalJournal of Vascular Surgery·DateApr 13, 2006

Researchers isolate causes of cognitive loss following coronary artery bypass surgery

Researchers isolate causes of cognitive loss following coronary artery bypass surgery, finding that minimal aortic movement significantly reduces neurological deficits. The study suggests that emboli are the cause of cognitive problems, and patients who did not use the heart-lung machine had fewer emboli.

SourceAtrium Health Wake Forest Baptist·JournalJournal of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery·DateJan 21, 2006

Vascular disease and aging

A new study has identified specific molecules whose genetic regulation is altered during aging, contributing to vascular remodeling. The study found that inflammatory-associated adhesion molecules ICAM-1 and VCAM-1 had significantly increased expression at older ages.

Engineers model blood flow

Researchers developed a computer model of blood flow in the aorta, identifying areas prone to disturbed flows that could lead to atherosclerosis. The model uses CAT scan images and predicts where oscillating flows may cause damage, allowing doctors to assess heart disease risk.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalJournal of Biomechanical Engineering·DateSep 17, 2002

Mayo Clinic study: Echocardiogram spots risk of valve narrowing, stroke

A Mayo Clinic study found that over one-third of adults aged 45+ had plaque buildup on their aortic valves, increasing the risk of hardening and narrowing of the aorta. Lifestyle changes can help prevent life-threatening complications. Risk factors include male gender, high blood pressure, obesity, and elevated homocysteine levels.

SourceMayo Clinic, Jacksonville·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateAug 31, 2001

American Heart Association Comment: Nonsurgical Reconstruction Of Thoracic Aortic Dissection By Stent-Graft Placement

A new nonsurgical technique using stent-graft placement has been shown to be effective in treating people with life-threatening aortic dissection. The catheter-delivered procedure involves inserting a wire mesh tube to force open and maintain the blocked aorta, reducing complications and mortality rates.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateMay 19, 1999

Hardening Of The Aorta Increases The Risk Of Stroke

A study found that thickening of the aorta at its attachment to the heart increases the risk of stroke and death. Researchers identified moderate and severe atherosclerosis as major risk factors, with higher mortality rates among patients with more advanced disease.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateApr 1, 1999