Interv Akut Kardiol. 2005;4(3):159-165

AORTIC DISSECTION

Jiří Vejvoda, David Alan, Petr Ošťádal

Kardiologická klinika 2. LF UK a FN Motol, Praha

Aortic dissection (AD) is a rare disease with the incidence of approximately 30 cases per million people per year. Although AD is uncommon, it becomes among serious, life-threatening diseases and its outcome is frequently fatal prior to diagnosis. Chest pain is the most common symptom of AD, many patients may, however, develop various other symptoms secondary to the involvement of specific organ systems. Also physical findings are usually not efficient for accurate and rapid diagnosis of AD. In suspicion for AD, imaging methods are essential for confirmation of this diagnosis; computer tomography (CT) scanning or transesophageal echocardiography (TEE), and recently also magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) are the most frequently used modalities. Therapeutic approach to the patients with AD depends on the type and extent of dissection. The most widely used Standford classification distinguishes AD type A and type B, based on its localization. While therapeutic strategy in AD type B is primary conservative, in AD type A surgery intervention is usually the treatment of choice. Recently, also endovascular therapy is being used in selected patients. We review the current diagnostic and therapeutic options in patients with AD.

Keywords: Key words: aortic dissection, prognosis, diagnosis, treatment.

Published: January 1, 2006  Show citation