Aortic dissection Flashcards
1
Q
What is aortic dissection?
A
Tear/damage to innermost layer of aorta causing blood to flow btwn layers and forcing them apart
2
Q
What is the aetiology of aortic dissection?
A
HTN
Connective tissue disorders (eg Marfans, Ehlers Danlos)
Atherosclerosis
3
Q
Describe the pathophysiology of AD
A
Intimal tear > blood enters media > high pressures forces tear to extend > blood travels through media (known as the “false lumen”)
