Acute aortic syndrome

Question 1

spectrum of acute aortic syndrome

Answer 1

penetrating atherosclerotic ulcer, intramural hematoma, aortic dissection, aortic transection

Question 2

penetrating atherosclerotic ulcer

Answer 2

atherosclerotic plaque penetrates intima defect; leads to saccular aneurysm formation

extends beyond contour of aortic wall

Question 3

intramural hematoma

Answer 3

defect of media/rupture of vasa vasorum; crescent shaped hemorrhage

noncommunicating dissection

faint peripheral hyperattenuating crescent within aorta best seen on noncontrast CT

Question 4

aortic dissection

Answer 4

defect of intima extending to media

Question 5

causes of aortic dissection

Answer 5

HTN, connective tissue disorder (Marfan), cocaine, aortopathy (bicuspid aortic valve, weight lifting, sudden deceleration)

Question 6

Stanford classification of aortic dissection and treatment

Answer 6

A: ascending aorta (surgery)
B: non-ascending aorta (medical)

Question 7

levels of traumatic aortic injury

Answer 7

aortic root, isthmus, hiatus