1.   Blood flows through the new channel, relieving pressure on the weakened aorta.

2.   But once they get in position, the rival systems will use subtly different techniques to patch the weakened aorta.

3.   Surgeons can mend the weakened aorta by clamping it, cutting out the ballooned section and replacing it with a synthetic vessel.

4.   When blood is pumped through a weakened aorta, the aorta bulges out like a balloon at the weak spot.

5.   The patch must extend like a sleeve inside the aorta, providing a new path so blood does not continue to pressure the weakened aorta wall.