The Penn Medicine Difference
The surgical team at Penn Medicine’s Aorta Center are leaders in aortic disease treatment. We treat more people with aortic disease than any other hospital in the area. Our outcomes are better than the national benchmarks, even though many of our patients have complex aortic disease that can’t be managed elsewhere.
Aortic disease requires medical care to prevent or stop rupture and bleeding. At Penn, a multidisciplinary team of experts including cardiac surgeons and vascular surgeons offers comprehensive treatment for aortic disease, including:
Active Surveillance
We carefully observe you over time with the help of advanced imaging modalities to determine if or when treatment becomes necessary.
Medical Management
We support you in managing your risk for chronic health conditions like high cholesterol and high blood pressure. Learn more about the Penn Primary Cardiology Program.
Endovascular Repair
Penn is among the most accomplished centers in the world for treating complex aortic disease with an endovascular approach. We use catheter-based procedures (using thin tubes) to repair thoracic aortic aneurysms, aortic ulcers and aortic dissections.
We have deep experience using a variety of stent grafts, including branched (fenestrated) grafts to treat aortic disease. In the past, the treatment would have required open heart surgery. Learn more about thoracic endovascular aortic repair (TEVAR).
Aorta Surgery
When endovascular repair isn’t an option, we perform open aorta surgery. For aneurysms at the aortic root, we offer valve-sparing aortic root replacement. And our accomplished heart valve surgeons perform aortic valve surgery.
In some cases, we may use a hybrid approach — endovascular and surgical methods — to repair the aorta. We perform hybrid aorta surgery in a special operating suite that features options for catheterization and open surgery.
Specialty Programs
We have unique experience treating bicuspid aortic valve disease (BAVD), a type of aortic disease, in the Center for Bicuspid Aortic Valve Disease. The interdisciplinary team includes surgeons, cardiologists, imaging specialists and geneticists. They work collaboratively to care for the special group of patients who are prone to aneurysms.
Clinical Trials
Through our robust research efforts in the Department of Surgery and the Penn Cardiovascular Institute, we may offer investigational treatments not available elsewhere. Our innovation in imaging and device development means patients have access to life-altering treatments, including branched devices, without needing to undergo open heart surgery
Cardiac Rehabilitation
After treatment for complex aortic disease, our team of outpatient cardiac rehabilitation experts can help you recover in a safe, supported environment. We help you gradually regain your strength through gentle exercises and nutrition counseling. Learn more about cardiac rehab.
Make an Appointment
Please call 800-789-7366 or request a callback.