Aortic Disection

Question 1

This condition occurs when a tear in the_____of the aorta creates a_______.
This weak spot extends with each beat, extending the tear.

Answer 1

intima

false lumen

Question 2

______is the number one risk factor for aortic dissection

Answer 2

Hypertension

Question 3

Other risk factors include

Answer 3

age > 40 and Marfan syndrome

Question 4

cxfx

Answer 4

sudden onset of tearing chest pain that radiates to the back

Question 5

physical examination

Answer 5

asymmetric blood pressures in the right and left arms

Question 6

Dx in a stable patient

Answer 6

Magnetic resonance angiogram (MRA).

Question 7

Fastest modality. Unstable Pt Dx test

Answer 7

transesophageal echocardiogram (TEE)

Question 8

what other test can you do

Answer 8

computed tomography angiography

(CTA),

Question 9

Treatment If imaging demonstrates an ascending dissection

Answer 9

emergent surgery and blood pressure control.

Question 10

For a descending dissection Tx

Answer 10

provide medical therapy for BP control

Question 11

best initial antihypertensive therapy. are

Answer 11

Beta-blockers

Question 12

after BB, give ____ such as_____. Possible SE

Answer 12

vasodilators
sodium nitroprusside.
Vasodilators should never be used alone, as
reflex tachycardia can increase shearing forces