aortic dissection

Question 1

what is an aortic dissection

Answer 1

An aortic dissection is a serious condition in which a tear occurs in the inner layer of the (aorta) the intima. Blood rushes through the tear, causing the inner and middle layers of the aorta to split (dissect).
forms a false lumen

Question 2

risk factors

Answer 2

Acquired
uncontrolled hypertension
smoking and high cholesterol
trauma (car accidents)
iatrogenic
infection (syphillis)
inflammatory from vasculitis
pregnancy

Question 3

congenital risk factors

Answer 3

connective tissue conditions (marfans syndrome)(EDS)
Genetic (Turners Syndrome)
coarctation of aortas
biscupid aortic valve

Question 4

clinical features

Answer 4

Chest pain stabbing or ripping pain
back pain between the shoulder blades
SOB
Collapse

Question 5

examination findings

Answer 5

abnormal or weak pulse
aortic regurgitation murmurs

Question 6

management

Answer 6

type A (ascending loop) - Surgical repair with grafts
type B (descending loop) - surgical repairs or managed with controlling blood pressure with beta blockers