Alternative Names
Aortic aneurysm – dissecting
Definition of Aortic dissection
Aortic dissection is a potentially life-threatening condition in which there is bleeding into and along the wall of the aorta, the major artery carrying blood out of the heart.
Causes, incidence, and risk factors
When it leaves the heart, the aorta first moves up through the chest toward the head (the ascending aorta). It then bends or arches, and finally moves down through the chest and abdomen (the descending aorta).
Symptoms
The symptoms usually begin suddenly, and include severe . The pain may:
Signs and tests
The health care provider will take your family history and listen to your heart, lungs, and abdomen with a stethoscope. A “blowing” murmur over the aorta, a heart murmur, or other abnormal sound may be heard.
Treatment
The goal of treatment is to prevent complications. Hospitalization is required.
Expectations (prognosis)
Aortic dissection is life threatening. The condition can be managed with surgery if it is done before the aorta ruptures. Less than half of patients with ruptured aorta survive.
Review
Issam Mikati, MD, Associate Professor of Medicine, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL. Review provided byVeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc. – 5/4/2010
