The aorta has been officially recognised as an independent organ. This recognition elevates the status of the aorta to that of other vital organs, such as the heart, lungs, and brain, signifying its critical role in the human body.
The German initiative, spearheaded by the Medical Centre – University of Freiburg, saw the publication of international guidelines for aortic surgery, a monumental step towards standardising the treatment of aortic diseases.
Led by Dr Martin Czerny, medical director of the Department of Cardiovascular Surgery at the University Heart Centre, the commission responsible for the guidelines included experts from various fields, highlighting the collaborative effort required to achieve this milestone.
Dr Czerny, renowned as one of the most cited scientists in cardiovascular surgery, emphasised the importance of recognising the aorta as a distinct entity in medical practice.
He stressed the necessity of integrating specialised care for aortic conditions, a principle long embraced by the University Heart Centre of Freiburg, which has now garnered international recognition.
The decision to classify the aorta as an organ acknowledges its multifaceted functions beyond simple blood transportation, playing a crucial role in oxygen distribution and blood pressure regulation, influencing blood flow velocity, and contributing to hormone production.
Its unique structure underscores its complexity and importance in maintaining physiological balance.
The newly established guidelines provide a comprehensive framework for diagnosing and treating aortic diseases, particularly aortic aneurysms.
These guidelines emphasise the urgency of surgical intervention in cases of acute aortic rupture, which poses immediate life-threatening risks.
The holistic approach advocated by the guidelines underscores the importance of long-term follow-up care to monitor patients for potential complications and recurrent issues.
One such patient, Helga, shared her harrowing experience with an aortic tear, highlighting the critical role of timely intervention and specialised care.
Helga’s journey, from a near-fatal incident to successful surgery and subsequent follow-up treatments, epitomises the transformative impact of recognising the aorta as an independent organ.
The implications of this milestone extend beyond clinical practice, potentially influencing medical education and training programmes worldwide.
Professor Dr Frederik Wenz, CEO of the Medical Centre – University of Freiburg, said: ‘The high level of expertise at the Medical Centre – University of Freiburg in the field of cardiovascular medicine is a core pillar of our quality-centred, cutting-edge university medicine. Professor Czerny and his team once again confirm the outstanding position of our University Heart Centre Freiburg – Bad Krozingen throughout Germany.’
By integrating the latest advancements in aortic surgery into medical curricula, future healthcare professionals can better understand and address the complexities of aortic diseases.
The article is published in the European Journal of Cardio-Thoracic Surgery.
