The American College of Cardiology (ACC) and the American Heart Association (AHH) on Wednesday published updated guidelines on the diagnosis and management of aortic disease, focusing on surgical intervention considerations, consistent imaging practices, genetic and familial screenings, and the importance of a multidisciplinary aortic team.
“There has been a host of new evidence-based research available for clinicians in the past decade when it comes to aortic disease,” Dr. Eric M. Isselbacher, guideline writing committee chair, said in a statement. “It was time to reevaluate and update the previous existing guidelines.”
Dr. Alan Braverman of the Washington University School of Medicine’s cardiovascular division served on the writing committee for the updated guidelines.
“We have utilized multidisciplinary teams in the approach to acute and chronic diseases of the aorta at Washington University in St. Louis and Barnes-Jewish Hospital for several years. The Aortic Disease Guidelines will provide a useful framework for cardiologists, vascular and cardiac surgeons, radiologists and other physicians and practitioners involved in the evaluation and management of individuals with aortic disease”, says Dr. Braverman.
“Highlights in the Aortic Disease Guidelines include emphasis on standard approaches to imaging and measuring the aorta, the importance of multidisciplinary teams and shared decision-making, updates in the medical, endovascular and surgical management of abdominal and thoracic aortic aneurysms, and importantly, the expanded role of genetic testing and family screening for individuals and families with thoracic aortic disease. New sections on pregnancy and family planning for individuals with thoracic aortic disease are included.”
Read more about the guidelines and their impact on treatment of aortic disease: