Complex Aortic Dissection Treatment from Renowned Doctors

Aortic dissection occurs when there is a tear in the inner layer of the aorta, the largest blood vessel that carries blood out of the heart. As the tear extends along the wall of the aorta, blood surges through the torn aorta, which causes the inner and middle layers of the aorta to dissect, or separate. This can lead to a decreased blood flow to various organs or a ruptured aorta, a life-threatening emergency.

Skilled Aortic Dissection Surgery

If an aortic dissection diagnosis is confirmed, survival depends on timely and effective treatment. Depending on the location and severity of the dissection, treatment may require either surgery or an endovascular stent-graft placement to repair or replace the dissected aorta.

UH heart and vascular interventionalists and surgeons provide expert care for complex aortic diseases through a multidisciplinary approach. Our nationally recognized vascular specialists provide a range of options to patients, including advanced minimally invasive procedures for improved patient outcomes and faster recovery.

Understanding Aortic Dissection Risk Factors

The cause of aortic dissection is unclear. In addition to advanced age and family history, the following risk factors are associated with this condition:

• Genetic connective tissue disorders, such as Marfan’s syndrome
• Hardening of the arteries
• High blood pressure
• Inflammation of the aorta (aortitis) or arteries (arteritis)
• Smoking
• Trauma

People with certain birth defects of the heart and blood vessels, such as narrowing or coarctation of the aorta and defects of the aortic valve, are also at risk for aortic dissection.