An aortic dissection is a condition that begins as a tear in the internal layer of the main artery in the body (or aorta). Here, the blood flows through the cut, leading to a split in the inner and middle layers of the aorta. The split can disrupt the blood flow, leading to poor circulation throughout the body. So, it is important to recognize the symptoms of the condition and seek timely treatment.

Symptoms
Certain signs of an aortic dissection may be the same as those of other heart problems, like a heart attack. Here are the most common symptoms of aortic dissection:

– Sudden, severe chest or upper back pain that spreads to the neck or runs down the back, typically described as a tearing or ripping sensation
– Sudden stomach pain
– Confusion
– Shortness of breath
– Stroke-like symptoms, such as vision problems, trouble speaking, and weakness or inability to move one side of the body (paralysis)
– Weak pulse in one arm or leg
– Leg pain
– Trouble walking

Causes
Cell breakdown in the wall of the artery can lead to the formation of weak spots, increasing the risk of a tear. Additionally, an inherited condition or the weakening of aorta walls due to constant high pressure can be common risk factors for aortic dissection.

Diagnosis
Here are a few tests that help diagnose aortic dissection:

Transesophageal echocardiogram (TEE): This test captures pictures of the heart using sound waves.

Computerized tomography (CT) scan: An aortic dissection can be confirmed using a computed tomography (CT) scan of the chest, which offers a view of the aorta.

Magnetic resonance angiogram (MRA): This involves taking pictures of the blood vessels using a magnetic field and radio waves.

Treatment options
Aortic dissection usually requires immediate treatment, which is determined by the location of the tear. Some of the common options are:

Graft replacement: Here, surgeons remove as much of the torn artery as they can and stop blood from getting into the wall of the aorta. If the damage to the artery makes the aortic valve leak, it is replaced with a synthetic tube called a graft.

Endovascular stent-graft repair: In this surgical approach, a synthetic fabric tube with metal wire stents called a stent graft is placed at the repair site inside the aorta. A catheter carrying the stent is inserted through the groin. This is then guided to the site of aortic damage with the help of an X-ray. At this location, the stent is released, which opens up and provides support to the weak part of the aorta.

Hybrid approach: In this procedure, conventional open surgery and endovascular stent-graft method are combined to repair the tear. This is carried out when there is a need to repair a large portion of the artery up to the aortic arch.

The symptoms of aortic dissection can mimic that of other heart problems, so it is important to seek a prompt diagnosis to receive appropriate treatment. Additionally, if one experiences sudden and severe chest or upper back pain, stomach pain, or other stroke-like symptoms, they should seek immediate medical attention. Early intervention can help prevent further complications and improve the prognosis.