A Multidisciplinary Cardiology Team Removes Massive Aortic Aneurysm

During a routine exam, Claire had an abnormal EKG. Her physician said her condition wasn’t life-threatening and advised her to make an appointment with a cardiologist.

Two doctors near her home had no immediate openings. Although she wasn’t concerned, Claire wanted to take care of it before departing on a cruise vacation with her husband. Claire called Valentin Fuster, MD, Ph.D., Director of Mount Sinai Heart, whom she had seen 15 years ago for another condition. He referred her to Paul Stelzer, MD, an aortic valve expert at Mount Sinai Heart. Dr. Steltzer ordered an echocardiogram for Clare revealing a massive 7-centimeter aortic aneurysm.

An aortic aneurysm is a bulge in a section of the aorta, the body's main artery. The aorta carries oxygen-rich blood from the heart to the rest of the body. Because the section with an aneurysm is overstretched, it can burst. If the aorta bursts, it can cause serious bleeding that can quickly lead to death.

Claire was immediately admitted to Mount Sinai for emergency heart surgery.

“I was never scared, and I knew it was serious,” said Claire who was immediately impressed by the team’s efficiency, competence, and caring bedside manner.

Today Claire is healthy and doing well.