Aortic Dissection Flashcards
1
Q
What is an aortic dissection?
A
Blood split aortic tunica media; as dissection unfolds - branches of the aorta occlude sequentially
2
Q
What distinguishes type A?
A
Involves aorta (regardless of site of tear)
3
Q
What distinguishes type B?
A
Doesn’t involve the aorta
4
Q
What are causes of aortic dissection?
A
Hypertension Trauma Coarctation Marfan's syndrome Pregnancy \+/- atheroma
5
Q
What are symptoms of aortic dissection?
A
Sudden tearing chest pain with radiation to the back
6
Q
How do you investigate/diagnose an aortic dissection. What is a good prophylactic measure?
A
CT/MRI/TOE
Cross-match blood to transfuse if needed
7
Q
What are complications of an aortic dissection?
A
Aortic incompetence and inferior MI may develop if dissection moves proximally
8
Q
How do you treat an aortic dissection?
A
Emergency surgery
Resus
Type B - possibly medically
