Review on Aortic Dissection Diagnostic & Management Approach in Emergency Department

Abstract

Aortic dissection is a rare occurrent condition involving the body's main artery, the aorta, and carrying with it high morbidity and mortality. It is one of the conditions that fall under the term acute aortic syndromes. Although it is uncommon, it is hard to describe the true number of cases as most cases are based on autopsy reports. Therefore, to encounter this catastrophic condition, early diagnosis and immediate management are vital for the survival of patients. The goal was to review the literature to enhance the awareness and understanding of mesenteric ischemia. We reviewed the literature for aortic dissection; pathophysiology, classification, diagnosis, and options for treatment. Articles were selected from the PubMed database, and the studies selected were subjected to a thorough review. Aortic dissection is an uncommon condition presenting as severe chest or back pain. Although it is uncommon, it remains a potentially fatal condition that may jeopardize a patient's life. It starts with a tear in the aortic intima, that can propagate on both sides leading eventually to end-organ ischemia and death. Early diagnosis and rapid management are the keys to a patient's survival.