Aortic Dissection: Causes, Symptoms and Treatments

 

The aorta, the largest artery in the human body, is a vital conduit for blood flow from the heart to the rest of the body. Aortic dissection is a medical emergency that occurs when there is a tear in the inner layer of the aorta, allowing blood to flow between the layers of the artery wall. This condition demands swift intervention due to its life-threatening nature. Understanding the causes, symptoms and treatments of aortic dissection is thus crucial for both healthcare professionals and the general public.

Causes of Aortic Dissection 

Aortic dissection often results from a weakened aortic wall, which can be attributed to various factors. Hypertension or high blood pressure, stands out as a primary cause. Prolonged hypertension exerts constant pressure on the aortic walls, thereby making them susceptible to tears (Nienaber, C.A., Clough, R.E., Sakalihasan, N., Suzuki, T., Gibbs, R., Mussa, F., Jenkins, M.P., Thompson, M.M., Evangelista, A., Yeh, J.S. and Cheshire, N., 2016. Aortic dissection. Nature reviews Disease primers, 2(1), pp.1-18). Other contributing factors include genetic conditions such as Marfan syndrome and Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, both of which affect the connective tissues in the body, making the aorta more prone to dissection. Trauma can also trigger aortic dissection, especially in cases of severe chest injuries. Atherosclerosis, the buildup of plaque in the arteries, is another risk factor (Nienaber, C.A., Clough, R.E., Sakalihasan, N., Suzuki, T., Gibbs, R., Mussa, F., Jenkins, M.P., Thompson, M.M., Evangelista, A., Yeh, J.S. and Cheshire, N., 2016. Aortic dissection. Nature reviews Disease primers, 2(1), pp.1-18). As plaque accumulates, it can compromise the integrity of the aortic wall, paving the way for dissection.

Symptoms of Aortic Dissection

Aortic dissection symptoms may vary from one patient to another depending on the extent of the tear and its location. However, sudden, severe pain is a hallmark sign. Often described as "tearing" or "ripping," this pain usually radiates to the back or between the shoulder blades (Gawinecka, J., Schönrath, F. and von Eckardstein, A., 2017. Acute aortic dissection: pathogenesis, risk factors and diagnosis. Swiss medical weekly, 147(3334), pp.w14489-w14489). Other symptoms may include shortness of breath, difficulty speaking, weakness or paralysis on one side of the body and loss of consciousness. Aortic dissection symptoms can mimic those of other cardiovascular conditions, making prompt and accurate diagnosis crucial for effective treatment.

Diagnosis

Given the urgency of aortic dissection, rapid and precise diagnosis is imperative. Medical professionals often employ imaging techniques such as CT scans, MRI or echocardiography to visualize the aorta and identify the tear (Ince, H. and Nienaber, C.A., 2007. Diagnosis and management of patients with aortic dissection. Heart, 93(2), pp.266-270). Blood tests, including D-dimer tests, may also be conducted to assess for the presence of substances released during the breakdown of blood clots.

Treatment of Aortic Dissection

Once diagnosed, the treatment approach for aortic dissection depends on the severity of the condition. Surgical intervention is the primary method, especially for cases involving the ascending aorta. Open-heart surgery or endovascular repair where a stent graft is used to reinforce the weakened aortic wall are common procedures (Khan, I.A. and Nair, C.K., 2002. Clinical, diagnostic, and management perspectives of aortic dissection. Chest, 122(1), pp.311-328). The choice between these methods depends on various factors, including the patient's overall health and the specific characteristics of the dissection.

In some cases, medications may be prescribed to lower blood pressure and reduce the stress on the aorta. Beta-blockers and calcium channel blockers are commonly used to achieve this. The goal is to manage blood pressure to prevent further tearing and reduce the risk of complications. Post-treatment, long-term management is crucial for individuals who have experienced aortic dissection. This typically involves regular medical check-ups, lifestyle modifications and adherence to medication regimens to control blood pressure and minimize the risk of recurrence.

Aortic dissection is a medical emergency that demands immediate attention and intervention. Awareness of the causes, recognition of symptoms and understanding the available treatments are essential for both healthcare professionals and the general public. Hypertension management, lifestyle modifications and regular medical check-ups play pivotal roles in preventing and managing aortic dissection. In cases where intervention is necessary, advancements in surgical techniques and medical therapies offer hope for improved outcomes and a better quality of life for those affected by this serious cardiovascular condition. 

FAQ

 

What is the best way to prevent aortic dissection?

 

   

Keeping your blood pressure under control is widely regarded as the best way to prevent aortic dissection.

 

 

What are the common warning signs a person may face before aortic dissection?

 

   

Some of the most common warning signs may include sudden severe upper back or chest pain which may spread to the neck or down the back. Some patients may also experience sudden severe stomach pain.