A Large Grade 5 Mobile Aortic Arch Atheromatous Plaque: Cause of Cerebrovascular Accident

A Comprehensive Guide to Aortic Atheroma: Delving in Its Causes, Detection, and Treatment

Aortic atheroma, a common disease, is characterized by the formation and accumulation of atheromatous plaques within the aorta. The disease manifestations range from asymptomatic conditions to life-threatening complications like stroke or aortic dissection. The severity of this condition necessitates a detailed look at its pathophysiology, diagnostics, and management options. This guide provides a detailed overview of aortic atheroma, its definition, worldwide occurrence, demographic patterns, and underlying pathophysiology. It also elucidates the symptomatology associated with atheromatous changes in the aorta, diagnostic criteria for identifying the disease, and the latest epidemiological data. This article presents current treatment modalities, focusing on preventive and lifestyle approaches to cease further progression of atheromatous disease. It additionally reviews relevant case studies to give practical insights into the challenges faced and consequences of managing aortic atheroma. The in-depth discussion of aortic atheroma improves the perspective to a broader public health relevance, giving importance to the need for continuous improvement in medical practices, and personalized healthcare strategies to reduce risk and better patient outcomes.

Total arch replacement for the treatment of a giant protruding thrombus in the thoracic aorta derived from an atherosclerotic lesion

A thoracic aortic thrombus is rare. The causes of this condition and the feasible options for its treatment remain controversial. Preventing embolic complications are the most important for the management of thoracic aortic thrombi. Herein, we report a case of a giant protruding thrombus in the thoracic aorta. We suggest total arch replacement (TAR) using an open stent graft (OSG) as a favorable management technique for thoracic aortic thrombi. We also recommend bilateral axillary artery cannulation to prevent cerebral infarction.