Undetected or untreated, aortic aneurysms can be fatal. New guidelines from the American College of Cardiology and American Heart Association suggest earlier intervention to help patients who typically go undiagnosed or untreated. In this discussion, we highlight:

• Risk factors for aortic aneurysms, including genetics and family medical history.
• The importance of surgical intervention for aneurysms starting at 5 cm.
• Why patients should only seek treatment at high-volume surgical centers that specialize in complex aortic surgery because this expertise cuts risk and improves outcomes. 
• How the Aortic Surveillance Program at The Mount Sinai Hospital is advancing research into risk factors, treatments, and outcomes. 

Elbert Williams, MD
Assistant Professor
Department of Cardiovascular Surgery
Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai
Director, Aortic Surveillance Program
The Mount Sinai Hospital

Randolph P. Martin, MD
Clinical Professor
Department of Cardiovascular Surgery
Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai