Thoracic Aortic Aneurysm

A thoracic aortic aneurysm is an abnormal enlargement of the aorta within the chest. The wall may enlarge silently for years, while the risk of dissection or rupture rises as wall stress, diameter, growth rate, and patient-specific risk factors accumulate. For nursing care, two trajectories must be kept separate. A stable aneurysm needs accurate serial measurement, blood-pressure control, risk-factor reduction, and timely referral. Abrupt severe pain, a new pulse or blood-pressure difference, neurological change, malperfusion, or shock indicates possible acute aortic syndrome and changes the priority to immediate assessment, haemodynamic control, definitive imaging, and urgent specialist management.