Your Aorta by Elefteriades, John; Fowler, Catherine;

Short description:

Aortic aneurysm, a condition often asymptomatic until rupture, claims innumerable lives worldwide each day. This volume provides an authoritative and accessible examination of the aorta, granting readers exceptional insight and a sense of medical empowerment.

Long description:

In a world of medical dramas and increased heart disease, the very word “aneurysm” instils fear and trepidation. Aortic aneurysms, known as silent killers, account for almost 10 per cent of all sudden deaths. Your Aorta: An Owner’s Guide uses a creative question-and-answer format to give you the tools to fight back.

This book provides a detailed illustrated guide to the aorta for every “owner,” in an informative and engaging new manner. Dr. John A. Elefteriades, named as the top thoracic aortic expert in the world with over 10,000 cardiac operations under his belt, and patient advocate Catherine Fowler explore the anatomy of the aorta, how to keep it healthy, and treatment advice for those impacted by aortic diseases. Your Aorta also provides a collection of personal experiences, some devastating and others inspiring, from patients, families, and doctors, sharing how aortic disease has impacted their lives and how they have responded to the challenges that it presents. Supplemented with elements such as a glossary of medical terms and QR codes linking to animated graphics, this book helps readers take charge of their medical journey.

In addition to the medical and anatomical insights, this book explores the emotional, physical, and psychological impact that aortic disease has upon the lives it touches. Your Aorta is a must-read for those concerned with leading a healthy and fulsome life and is a vital source of hope for all individuals. It serves as a timely reminder that aortic aneurysm, albeit an intimidating foe, can be subdued.

Table of Contents:

Foreword
1. Preamble: Copious Images and Plain Talk
2. Reassurance: You Are in Good Company; We Can Keep You Safe

Chapter 1. Introductory Matters
Chapter 2. Clinical Presentation and Behaviour

Patient Stories
1. A Daughter’s Quest
Catherine Fowler
2. Lessons Learned from a Lethal Missed Diagnosis
John Cronin
3. A Heart Surgeon’s Perspective on Death: Losing a Battle but Winning the War
Mark Field
4. “Unfortunately, It Was Not a Heart Attack....”
Martin Hilton
5. Back on the Gridiron
John A. Elefteriades, MD
6. Back on the Racetrack
John A. Elefteriades, MD

Chapter 3. When Does an Aneurysm Need Treatment?
Chapter 4. Genetics of Aneurysm Disease
Chapter 5. Medical Treatment
Chapter 6. Surgical Therapy
Chapter 7. Endovascular Therapy
Chapter 8. Other Topics
Chapter 9. Future Prospects
Chapter 10. Silver Lining

Closing Remarks

About Your Authors

Additional Resources

Glossary