Central aortic blood pressure and pulse wave characteristics in patients with decscending thoracic and abdominal aortic aneurysm: features, dynamics, and prognostic significance

Abstract

Aortic aneurysm (AA) is one of the most formidable cardiovascular diseases, characterized by subtle clinical manifestations and a high risk of complications. Predisposing factors in the development of AA are age, arterial hypertension (HTN), atherosclerosis, and inflammatory aortic diseases. Those are associated with changes in vascular stiffness. HTN causes increased tension in the aortic wall when the pulse wave of blood pressure (BP) rises in patients with AA. Indicators of central BP and vascular stiffness are of particular interest. They present as independent risk factors for cardiovascular events but are poorly studied among patients with AA. The purpose of the review is to summarize the ideas about the relationship of AA with the indicators of vascular stiffness and central hemodynamics in patients with non-operated AA, as well as after endovascular AA repair. Here we discuss the predictive accuracy and applicability of individual markers concerning AA progression and surgical treatment outcomes, as well as unresolved issues and prospects for further research.