The aorta is the main blood vessel that carries oxygen-rich blood from the heart to the rest of the body.
When parts of the aorta weaken, bulge, or tear, it can lead to potentially serious conditions collectively known as aortic disease.
These conditions include aortic aneurysms and aortic dissections, both of which can progress silently for years before presenting sudden and life-threatening complications.
Early detection and appropriate treatment are key to preventing rupture and improving long-term outcomes.
At Spectrum Vascular, we provide prompt evaluation and evidence-based treatment for aortic disease in Singapore, ensuring every patient receives safe and effective care tailored to their individual needs.
Dr Tay Jia Sheng is a distinguished vascular surgeon in Singapore, specialising in minimally invasive vascular, endovascular and endovenous procedures. He treats a broad range of conditions including varicose veins, deep vein thrombosis, peripheral arterial disease, diabetic foot ulcers and aortic aneurysms.
As a founding vascular surgeon at Sengkang General Hospital, Dr Tay led one of Singapore’s busiest vascular units with strong outcomes and low complication rates. He is among the few local surgeons skilled in advanced techniques such as minimally invasive vein harvesting and complex endovascular aneurysm repairs.
Outside the operating theatre, he has taught at Yong Loo Lin, Duke-NUS and Lee Kong Chian medical schools. Recognised with awards such as the SingHealth Quality Service Award and COVID-19 Resilience Medal, he now practises at Spectrum Vascular & General Surgery, offering patient-centred care with a focus on minimally invasive treatment.
The aorta is the body’s largest artery. It begins at the heart, travels through the chest (thoracic aorta) and continues down into the abdomen (abdominal aorta) before branching out to supply blood to vital organs such as the stomach, liver, kidneys, and legs.
Given its crucial role, any weakness in the aortic wall can lead to severe complications if not properly managed.
Although both conditions involve the aorta, an aortic aneurysm and an aortic dissection are quite different.
An aneurysm occurs when a section of the aortic wall weakens and gradually expands, forming a balloon-like bulge.
It often develops slowly and may not cause symptoms until it becomes large or ruptures.
In contrast, an aortic dissection happens when a tear forms in the inner layer of the aortic wall, allowing blood to flow between its layers.
This separation weakens the vessel wall and can lead to sudden, severe chest or back pain.
An abdominal aortic aneurysm is an enlargement or ballooning of the aorta in the abdomen. If it grows or ruptures, it can cause serious internal bleeding.
Many AAAs develop silently without noticeable symptoms and are often discovered during routine scans or medical check-ups. When symptoms do occur, they may include:
A thoracic aortic aneurysm involves the bulging or enlargement in the upper part of the aorta that runs through the chest.
An iliac artery aneurysm refers to an enlargement in the iliac section of the aorta, which branches out to supply blood to the pelvis and lower limbs.
These aneurysms often develop gradually and may go unnoticed until they are detected during imaging for other conditions.
Iliac aneurysms are often silent and asymptomatic, but when symptoms occur, they may include:
Aortic disease is dangerous because it often develops silently:
Many people have no symptoms until the condition becomes severe. When the wall of the aorta weakens and expands, as in an aortic aneurysm, it can rupture and cause sudden internal bleeding, which is life-threatening.
In an aortic dissection, a tear in the inner wall allows blood to flow between the layers of the artery, disrupting blood supply to vital organs such as the heart, brain and kidneys. This is a medical emergency that requires urgent treatment.
Even smaller aneurysms can grow over time, increasing the risk of rupture. Early detection and regular monitoring are key to preventing complications and ensuring timely intervention.
Aortic disease is dangerous because it often develops silently:
Many people have no symptoms until the condition becomes severe. When the wall of the aorta weakens and expands, as in an aortic aneurysm, it can rupture and cause sudden internal bleeding, which is life-threatening.
In an aortic dissection, a tear in the inner wall allows blood to flow between the layers of the artery, disrupting blood supply to vital organs such as the heart, brain and kidneys. This is a medical emergency that requires urgent treatment.
Even smaller aneurysms can grow over time, increasing the risk of rupture. Early detection and regular monitoring are key to preventing complications and ensuring timely intervention.
Aortic aneurysms and dissections are usually detected through imaging tests that provide detailed views of the blood vessels and aortic wall.
Common diagnostic methods include:
Regular screening is especially recommended for individuals with a family history of aneurysm or known risk factors such as hypertension or smoking.
Early detection allows timely treatment and greatly reduces the risk of complications.
Treatment for aortic disease depends on the type, size, and location of the aneurysm or dissection and the patient’s overall health. The goal is to prevent rupture, restore proper blood flow and reduce the risk of complications.
In some cases, small aneurysms may only require regular imaging to monitor growth. For larger or symptomatic aneurysms, surgical repair is recommended. Treatment generally falls into two main approaches:
Endovascular repair is a minimally invasive procedure that uses a stent graft — a fabric-covered metal mesh — to reinforce the weakened section of the aorta from within.
During the procedure, a small incision is made in the groin to insert a catheter that carries the stent graft through the blood vessels to the affected area.
Once in place, the stent graft acts as a new channel for blood flow, reducing pressure on the aneurysm and preventing rupture.
Benefits of endovascular repair include smaller incisions, less blood loss, shorter hospital stays and faster recovery times compared to open surgery.
For aneurysms that are too large, complex or unsuitable for endovascular repair, an open surgical repair may be required.
This involves making an incision in the chest or abdomen to directly access the aorta. The diseased segment is then replaced with a synthetic graft, which permanently restores the integrity of the vessel.
Although open repair involves a longer recovery period, it remains a proven and durable treatment option for many patients.
If you have been diagnosed with aortic disease or are concerned about risk factors such as high blood pressure, smoking, or a family history of aneurysm, it’s important to have your aorta evaluated early.
A simple scan or even a second opinion can help detect issues before they become serious.
At Spectrum Vascular & General Surgery, our vascular specialist provides comprehensive assessment and evidence-based treatment for aortic and vascular diseases, including endovascular repair (EVAR / TEVAR) and open surgical options.
For enquiries, consultation or second opinions, please complete the form below or call us at +65 8874 0371
Our team will get back to you shortly to assist with your request.
Small aneurysms may not pose immediate danger but should be monitored by a vascular surgeon. Larger aneurysms (over 5 cm) carry a higher risk of rupture, which can cause severe internal bleeding and be life-threatening.
Recovery varies by procedure. Endovascular repair (EVAR / TEVAR) usually requires a 1–2 day hospital stay, while open repair may involve up to 10 days. Regular CT or ultrasound scans are needed to monitor the graft and aorta.
Control high blood pressure and cholesterol, maintain a healthy diet, exercise regularly, and avoid smoking. These habits help protect the arteries and reduce aneurysm risk.
People with a family history of aneurysm, men over 65, or those with high blood pressure or a smoking history should consider screening. An ultrasound or CT scan can detect early changes in the aorta.
Yes. Aortic aneurysm repair and related imaging are generally MediSave- and insurance-claimable, depending on your policy and coverage limits.
These conditions primarily affect the arteries, which are blood vessels responsible for transporting oxygenated blood from the heart to the rest of the body. The aorta, the body’s main and largest artery, can be afflicted by various conditions that compromise its function and structural integrity. These conditions can manifest in various ways, from minor symptoms to life-threatening events. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial to prevent life-threatening complications.
An aortic aneurysm (AA) is an abnormal bulge or ballooning in the wall of the aorta where it has weakened. This condition can develop in various parts of the aorta:
Aortic aneurysms can affect anyone but are more common in men over the age of 65. Risk factors include:
In its early stages, an aortic aneurysm may not pose an immediate health risk if it is smaller than scientifically established threshold diameters or shapes. However, as it grows, the aneurysm walls stretch and thin, compromising the aorta’s ability to withstand blood pressure. This increases the risk of rupture, which leads to severe internal bleeding and can be fatal without prompt medical intervention.
Early diagnosis and treatment of aortic aneurysms are crucial to prevent life-threatening complications. Regular screening, especially for individuals with risk factors, can help detect aneurysms before they become critical. Treatment options vary based on the size and location of the aneurysm and may include:
Understanding aortic aneurysms and their potential risks underscores the importance of early detection and management to maintain cardiovascular health.
A serious condition where the inner layers of the aorta separate due to a tear, allowing blood to flow between them.
Aortic diseases can have severe implications if left untreated. If you or a loved one is experiencing any of the symptoms mentioned above, it is crucial to seek expert care immediately. Our team offers comprehensive diagnostic and treatment services tailored to individual needs.
Treatment is recommended when:
Close management of chronic medical conditions such as hypertension and cholesterol with medications is crucial. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle with regular exercise, a balanced diet, and avoiding smoking can also help prevent aortic aneurysms.
For more information about aortic aneurysms, or to schedule a consultation with a vascular surgeon in Singapore, contact our clinic today. Our experienced team is dedicated to providing comprehensive vascular care and advanced treatment options to ensure your health and well-being.
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Tel: +65 6041 0933
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#08-14 Connexion
Singapore 217562
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Email: contact@spectrum-surgery.com
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