Acute thoracic aortic dissection (Stanford B): challenges in early detection and management

• Main Authors: Abdullah, Noraini Sarina, Ahmad Saad, Fathinul Fikri
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Published: OMICS International 2015
• Online Access: http://psasir.upm.edu.my/id/eprint/43656/1/abstract123.pdf; http://psasir.upm.edu.my/id/eprint/43656/; http://www.omicsgroup.org/journals/acute-thoracic-aortic-dissection-stanford-b-challenges-in-early-detectionand-management-2167-7964-1000200.pdf

Background: Diagnosis of acute thoracic dissection is crucial given its potential fatal complications in delayed treatment response. Early and appropriate intervention renders obviation of futile surgery. Case report: A 63 years old man with uncontrolled hypertension who presented to emergency department with sharp excruciating chest pain which radiated to the back. A Computed Tomography Angiography (CTA) was done which confirmed thoracic aortic dissection (Stanford type B) (Figures 1 and 2). An uneventful endovascular stent graft with Captivia system was done to contain the entry tear. The patient was doing well post procedure with well-controlled blood pressure. Conclusion: This case reports documents challenges in making immediate diagnosis of acute aortic dissection and in providing appropriate intervention to avert fatal outcomes.