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An aortic dissection occurs when the inner layer of the aorta is torn. Blood flows into the space between the two layers which causes the tear to extend, usually inthe direction of blood flow. The blood separates the two layers, creating a "false lumen" and limiting the amount of blood which reaches the ret of the body. It also puts a lot of pressure on the outer aortic wall, which can cause the wall to rupture.

Aortic dissections are life-threatening and the risk of fatality increases 1-3% each hour. Most cases require emergency surgery.

The most common symptom is a "ripping" or "tearing" pain in the chest and upper back. This pain is often confused with the pain of an oncoming heart attack.

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12y ago
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12y ago

Aortic dissection is a rare, but potentially fatal, condition in which blood passes through the inner lining and between the layers of the aorta. The dissecting aorta usually does not burst, but has an abnormal second channel within it.

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Q: What is aortic dissection?
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Related questions

What causes aortic dissection?

Aortic dissection is caused by a deterioration of the inner lining of the aorta.


What are the symptoms of aortic dissection?

An aortic dissection usually causes severe pain in the abdomen, back, or chest, depending on the section of the aorta that is affected.


Are elevated troponins associated with aortic dissection?

yes


Is there a support group for people that survived an aortic dissection?

aorticdissection.com


What is a separating aorta?

"Separating aorta" might refer to an aortic dissection. An aortic dissection is a life-threatening aortic condition in which the inner layer of the aorta is torn. This causes blood to collect in the space between the two layers. This blocks blood flow, causes the tear to enlarge and weakens the outer wall of the aorta, which can lead to this wall rupturing. Medical attention at a center specializing in aortic disease should be sought immediately for suspected aortic dissection.


Trauma related cyanosis from nipple line to head?

Thoracic aortic dissection or hemopericardium.


When did Tomoyuki Dan die?

Tomoyuki Dan died on October 10, 2013, in Japan of aortic dissection.


Can aortic dissection be fatal?

Aortic Dissection can be fatal if it is not recognized right away. It occurs when the wall of the aorta tears and blood flows in. Most people associate the pain with a heart attack and tend to ignore the symptoms.


When did Eiichi Ohtaki die?

Eiichi Ohtaki died on December 30, 2013, in Tokyo, Japan of aortic dissection.


Difference between myocardial ischemia and aortic dissection?

in myocadial ischemia, pain radiate to jaw, neck,shoulder,arm wheras in aortic dissection pain radiate to back, between scapulae there is differense between pulse rate of both arms and leg depending on ecg changes


When did Leslie Temple die?

Leslie Temple died on July 10, 2004, in Liverpool, England, UK of aortic dissection.


What causes a massive haemopericardium?

Massive haemopericardium is caused by bleeding into the pericardial sack. The cause of this may be penetration by a sharp object or projectile, blunt chest trauma, or splitting of the heart wall as a result of mitral valve problems or damage to the myocardium (the inner layer of the heart) following a heart attack for example.