The International Registry of Acute Aortic Dissection (IRAD)
Article Abstract:
It may be very difficult to detect aortic dissection. Aortic dissection occurs when the inner wall of the aorta splits open. This in turn can lead to an aneurysm and potential rupture of the aorta. In a study of 464 patients who were subsequently found to have aortic dissection, many did not have the usual symptoms. Even chest X-rays and electrocardiograms were not helpful. Twenty-seven percent of the patients died in the hospital.
Publication Name: JAMA, The Journal of the American Medical Association
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0098-7484
Year: 2000
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Diagnostic imaging in the evaluation of suspected aortic dissection: old standards and new directions
Article Abstract:
Early diagnosis is crucial to the successful treatment of acute aortic dissection, a condition that arises from the splitting of an arterial wall. It is important to distinguish between dissections involving the ascending aorta (type A) and those that do not (type B), because type A dissections require immediate surgery and type B can usually be treated with medication. Aortography, the standard means of diagnosing dissection, requires injection of an opaque substance, takes up to two hours to perform and, as with all invasive procedures, poses risks to the patient. Recent advancements in noninvasive diagnostic imaging techniques such as computed tomography (CT) scanning, echocardiography and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) may be just as effective and, in certain cases, more advantageous. CT scanning is quick and relatively inexpensive but is the least accurate technique. MRI is highly accurate but is not suitable for all patients. Transesophageal echocardiography is accurate and convenient and may be the most practical option.
Publication Name: The New England Journal of Medicine
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0028-4793
Year: 1993
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Partial thrombosis of the false lumen in patients with acute type B aortic dissection
Article Abstract:
A study evaluates the incidence of partial thrombosis of the false lumen on cross-sectional imaging and assesses its effect on mortality in patients presenting with type B aortic dissection. Evidence shows that partial thrombosis of the false lumen, as compared with complete patency, is a significant independent predictor of postdischarge mortality.
Publication Name: The New England Journal of Medicine
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0028-4793
Year: 2007
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