To inform the treatment approach, we use the latest imaging technologies and techniques to visualize the aorta with exceptional detail:

• Computed Tomography Angiography
• Magnetic Resonance Angiography
• Echocardiography
• 4D flow MRI
• Abdominal aorta ultrasound

For patients with suspected genetic aortic conditions we offer:

• Comprehensive genetic panels targeting known aortic disease genes
• Family screening and counseling for inherited conditions, including connective tissue disorders
• Risk analysis based on genetic findings
• Tailored monitoring plans informed by genetic results

These procedures are done by making an incision to move tissue aside to access the problem area.

• Ascending aortic replacement: Addressing aneurysms of the ascending portion of the aorta while preserving valve function when possible.
• Aortic valve repair: For patients with healthy aortic valve tissue and with aortic valve regurgitation; patient’s own valve is preserved and repaired using complex surgical techniques.
• Aortic dissection repair: Emergency and planned repairs for both Type A (ascending) and Type B (descending) aortic dissections.
• Total arch replacement (TAR): For patients with aortic arch aneurysm; new surgical stents are used to facilitate operation.
• Redo aortic interventions: Complex reoperations for patients with previous aortic surgery.
• Ross procedure: Uses the patient’s own pulmonary valve to replace a diseased aortic valve; especially beneficial for younger patients with aortic stenosis or aortic valve regurgitation.
• Thoracoabdominal aortic replacement: Comprehensive repair of complex aneurysms extending from the chest into the abdomen.
• Abdominal aortic aneurysms: Comprehensive management of all abdominal vascular conditions with both endovascular and traditional surgeries.

These procedures are done with the help of a small device guided through an artery to the problem area.

• Thoracic endovascular aortic repair (TEVAR), including TEVAR of the ascending aorta to repair aneurysms and dissections, offers an alternative for patients who cannot undergo open surgery. Johns Hopkins is among the few centers nationally with expertise in this advanced technique.
• Endo-Bentall: A minimally invasive option for high-risk patients with aortic root pathology, this revolutionary endovascular approach to aortic root repair was pioneered by Mehrdad Ghoreishi, cardiac surgical director of the Broccoli Aortic Center.
• Endovascular thoracoabdominal repair: Complex stent graft procedures for thoracoabdominal aortic aneurysms that would otherwise require extensive open surgery with significant recovery time.
• Fenestrated endovascular repair (FEVAR): Customized stent grafts with precisely placed fenestrations (openings) that maintain blood flow to vital branch vessels while excluding aneurysms from circulation.
• Total endovascular arch replacement: Cutting-edge approach to treat aortic arch pathology entirely through endovascular techniques, eliminating the need for sternotomy and circulatory arrest.
• Angioplasty and stenting: Opening narrowed arteries with the help of a stent to restore blood flow.

These procedures are done by making one or several small incisions to access the problem area.

• Minimally Invasive ascending aortic repair: Smaller incisions for faster recovery while maintaining excellent outcomes.
• Minimally invasive aortic valve operation: Through a small incision in the right chest, the aortic valve is replaced or repaired.