Aortic Dissection and Aneurysm

Question 1

Aortic Dissection (what is it)

Answer 1

Intimal tear with dissection through media

Question 2

2 Requirements for Aortic Dissection (& how to get)

Answer 2

1. Stress - usually occurs in proximal 10cm of aorta
2. Weakness of media - HTN results in hyaline arteriolosclerosis and decreased perfusion through vaso vasorum, causing media atrophy. Can also get with CTD like Marfan’s or EDS

Question 3

Most Common Cause of Death in AD

Answer 3

Pericardial tamponade

Question 4

Cause of Thoracic Aneurysm (& hallmark)

Answer 4

Weakness in aorta wall, classically seen in tertiary syphilis, which causes endarteritis. “Tree-bark” apperance of aorta

Question 5

Major Complication of Thoracic Aneurysm

Answer 5

Dilatation of aortic valve root, resulting in aortic valve insufficiency

Question 6

Location of AAA

Answer 6

Below renal arteries but above aortic bifurcation

Question 7

Classic Demographic Presentation/Cause of AAA

Answer 7

Atherosclerosis causes weakening of wall - male smokers > 60 years old w/ HTN

Question 8

AAA Size Threshold for Rupture

Answer 8

5cm