Thoracoabdominal aortic aneurysm

An aortic aneurysm is when part of the aorta gets weaker and balloons out or bulges. The aorta is the main blood vessel that comes out of the heart.

The "thoracic aorta" is the upper part of the aorta, in the chest. The "abdominal aorta" is the lower part, in the belly. A thoracoabdominal aortic aneurysm, or "TAAA," affects both parts.

Large aortic aneurysms can burst, or rupture, causing bleeding into the belly or chest. A ruptured aortic aneurysm is an emergency and needs immediate treatment.