Esophageal Saccular or Fusiform Aneurysm
Esophageal saccular or fusiform aneurysm is a type of bulging and ballooning of the wall of the esophagus, or food pipe. These aneurysms are typically caused by a narrowing of the artery or the esophagus itself and often occur in the elderly or those with other vascular problems. Symptoms of an esophageal aneurysm include chest or abdominal pain, difficulty swallowing, and vomiting of blood.
If detected early, an esophageal aneurysm often can be managed through lifestyle changes and medications such as aspirin, anticoagulants, and calcium channel blockers. These medications can help control bleeding, reduce the risk of a ruptured aneurysm, and improve the quality of life of those affected by the condition. However, surgery is often recommended if the aneurysm is growing, the condition fails to respond to medications, or seems to be the cause of other medical complications.
The surgical approach to treating an esophageal aneurysm involves a combination of techniques, depending on the size and location of the aneurysm. For small aneurysms, surgeons may be able to perform an endoscopic procedure, which involves snipping the bulging area and filling in the space with a special material. To do this, the surgeon typically makes a few small cuts in the esophagus and inserts a tiny camera and instruments to perform the procedure.
Sometimes, a larger aneurysm may require an open surgical procedure, which is often referred to as an open bypass of the affected artery. This involves cutting out the aneurysm and replacing it with a transplanted vein taken from another part of the body, usually the leg. The transplanted vein is then connected to the aorta, the body’s main artery. Open surgery is a more invasive procedure and has a greater risk of complication, so it is typically reserved for high-risk cases with larger or more dangerous aneurysms.
If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with an esophageal aneurysm, it is important to discuss treatment options with your doctor as soon as possible. The risk of liver and other organ damage increases with the size of the aneurysm and the length of time without treatment. Early intervention is always the best course of action. Your doctor can discuss the pros and cons of different treatment options, such as lifestyle changes, medications, and surgery, and develop a care plan that is best suited to your individual needs.
