The aorta is the largest artery in the body, and it carries oxygen-rich blood from the heart to the body. The thoracic aorta is the portion of this blood vessel that is in the thorax (chest). Left untreated, diseases of the aorta can quickly escalate into life-threatening emergencies.
Launched in March of 2021, Aortic Center at Morristown Medical Center provides a comprehensive, innovative approach to patients with diseases of the thoracic aorta such as aortic aneurysm, aortic dissection, aortic disease that may accompany bicuspid aortic valve, connective tissue disorder, and other aortic pathology.
This multidisciplinary approach combines the expertise of world-class cardiac and vascular surgical teams with the knowledge of professionals in fields such as cardiology, anesthesiology, critical care, radiology and genetics. Together with you and your loved ones, the center will create a treatment plan that balances the risks and benefits of the available medical and surgical interventions.
“Our strategies range from active surveillance (evaluating your aortic disease and working with your primary doctor to ensure proper monitoring and follow-up), medical management to endovascular (less invasive) and/or conventional open-heart surgical procedures to treat the underlying problem,” says Benjamin van Boxtel, MD, surgical director of the Aortic Center.