Thoracic Aortic Dissection Flashcards
What is the type A aortic dissection type? Type B?
- A involves the ascending portion of the aorta
- B do not involve this region
What is the difference between Type I and II type A aortic dissection?
I involves the entirety of the aorta, whereas type II only involves the ascending aorta
What is the timeframe difference for acute vs chronic aortic dissection?
0-14 days = acute
14+ = chronic
Why are neurologic symptoms common with thoracic aortic dissection?
Lack of brain perfusion
A difference in arm BP more than how many mmHg is suggestive of an aortic aneurysm?
20 mmHg
Why must you still have a high suspicion for thoracic aortic dissection in a pt with ST segment elevation?
Dissection into the coronaries will cause STEMI
A tracheal stripe over how many mm is concerning for a thoracic aortic dissection?
5 mm
What is the role of lactic acid in the assessment of aortic dissection?
Detects Intestinal malperfusion
What is the role of creatinine in the assessment of aortic dissection?
Detects renal malperfusion
What is the role of WBC in the assessment of aortic dissection?
May be elevated in acute stress response
What is the general management for type A and B aortic dissections?
- A = surgery
- B = medical management
What is the medications used to manage aortic dissections?
Esmolol
Nitroprusside
What is the target SBP and HR for aortic dissections?
SBP = 120 HR = 60
Why should vasodilators be avoided in aortic dissections?
Cause reflex tachycardia
What is the official role of a d-dimer in the diagnosis of aortic dissection?
Inadequate
