Aortic root surgery is a procedure to treat an enlarged section of the aorta, also known as an aortic aneurysm. The aorta is the large blood vessel that carries blood from the heart to the body. The aortic root is where the aorta and the heart connect.

Aortic aneurysms near the aortic root may be due to an inherited condition called Marfan syndrome. Other causes include heart problems present at birth, such as a bicuspid aortic valve.

Aortic root surgery is done to prevent:

• A rupture of the aorta.
• A tear between the layers of the aorta's wall, called an aortic dissection.
• Stretching of the aortic valve.

The risk of these events depends on the size of the aortic root and cause of enlargement. Aortic root surgery is recommended for those at high risk.

Before aortic root surgery, talk to your health care provider about the best treatment or surgery for your condition. Also discuss the benefits and risks of the surgery.