Aortic Disruption

This chapter covers the mechanism, classification, presenting signs, and basic principles of management for aortic dissection. Aortic disruption occurs when a tear develops in the aortic intima with passage of blood into the new space between the intima and media. A hypothetical patient presenting with signs of dissection is presented first, followed by sections covering classification systems of dissection, risk factors for dissection, and basic principles of management. Acute stabilization, diagnostic imaging, definitive management, and long-term follow up of patient management are discussed. In addition the dissection location and its implication on principles of management and outcome are covered. The chapter concludes with some discussion questions covering frequently encountered aspects of management touched on in the chapter.