Absolute size thresholds for degenerative aneurysms: [1][3][5]

Ascending aorta/aortic root: ≥5.5 cm

Descending thoracic aorta: ≥6.0 cm (or 5.5 cm if favorable anatomy for TEVAR)

Thoracoabdominal aorta: ≥6.0 cm

Lower thresholds apply for: [3]

Marfan syndrome or genetic conditions: 4.0-5.0 cm depending on condition

Bicuspid aortic valve: 5.0-5.5 cm

Rapid growth: >0.5 cm/year

Concomitant cardiac surgery: >4.5 cm if undergoing aortic valve surgery

Immediate surgical evaluation: [5]

Any symptomatic aneurysm regardless of size (chest/back pain, dysphagia, hoarseness, hemoptysis)

Acute complications (dissection, rupture, malperfusion)

Post-Repair Surveillance

After TEVAR: CT at 1 month, 12 months, then annually if stable. [1]

After open repair: CT or MRI within 1 year, then every 5 years if no residual aortopathy. Annual imaging if residual disease or abnormal findings.

So many good features in your project!

Employing local staff that know the setting and can be role models for the kids.

Supporting mentoring by volunteers to scale.

Working with bodies to get a visceral experience that change is possible.

Mentoring in groups to build a community.

Spotlighting diversity and building bridges beyond the local community.

Some related resources: Ballet dancer from Kibera

Fighting poverty and gang violence in Rio's favelas with ballet