Definition The term aortic dissection (Syn. Aneurysma dissecans aortae) describes a splitting (dissection) of the wall layers of the aorta. As a rule, the innermost wall layer (tunica intima) is suddenly torn open, resulting in bleeding between the wall layers (the aorta, like any artery, is made up of the three wall layers tunica intima, … Aortic dissection
Causes of aortic dissection The most important risk factor for aortic dissection is arteriosclerosis, a calcification of the inner vascular layer of the arteries (promoted by increasing age, smoking, diabetes, high blood lipid levels, etc.). A weakness of the tunica media (so-called media degeneration) is also predisposing for a dissection. Here, a dilatation usually occurs … Causes of aortic dissection | Aortic dissection
Symptoms of aortic dissection The so-called leading symptom, which is described by more than 9 out of 10 patients with an acute dissection, is an acute, very severe pain in the chest or abdominal area or in the back. The pain is described by those affected as very intense and stabbing or tearing, sometimes patients … Symptoms of aortic dissection | Aortic dissection
Operation In case of an acute type A dissection, immediate emergency surgery must be performed to prevent a fatal rupture. The patient must be transported to a specialized center for this purpose, as it is a major procedure. The standard procedure during surgery is to replace the ascending aorta with a gore-tex vascular prosthesis. If … Operation | Aortic dissection
Life expectancy in aortic dissection Life expectancy in aortic dissection depends largely on whether type A or B is present, with type B generally having a better prognosis. In addition, life expectancy naturally depends on the patient’s previous illnesses and clinical condition at the time of the acute event. In addition, a ruptured dissection (type … Life expectancy in aortic dissection | Aortic dissection
