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Aortic dissection - DeBakey type II

Case contributed by Heather Pascoe
Diagnosis certain

Presentation

Presents with collapse, seizure and global ischemic change on ECG.

Patient Data

Age: 70 years
Gender: Male

Ascending aortic dissection (Debakey type II = Stanford A) with intimal flap prolapsing through the aortic valve. 

Reformat demontrates the intimal flap attachment has torn superiorly and prolapsed through the aortic valve (simulating a heart-shape). Heart within a heart. :)

Case Discussion

CTA of the chest demonstrates an aortic dissection involving the ascending aorta. This is a surgical emergency. The patient proceeded to repair of the ascending aorta and is doing well. 

Case courtesy of Dr Mark McCusker.

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