Evaluating ascending aortic aneurysm tissue toughness: Dependence on collagen and elastin contents

Ascending thoracic aortic aneurysms (ATAAs) can lead to a dissection or rupture of the aorta, causing death or disability of the patients. Surgical interventions used to treat this disease are associated with risks of mortality and morbidity. Several studies have investigated the rupture mechanisms of ATAAs; however, underlying reasons behind aortic rupture (failure) have not been fully elucidated and further investigations are necessary. The...