- We are not very good at making the diagnosis…correct as initial diagnosis only 15-50%
- Type A involves ascending aorta and requires immediate cardiothoracic surgeon, Type B does not.
- CT Angio is the study of choice in stable patients
- Normal CXR in 12% of patients. Abnormal findings include wide mediastinum, abnormal aortic contour, pleural effusion, and wall Ca+ displacement
- If no clinically apparent aortic insufficiency or CHF, then treat first with labetalol/esmolol then nitroprusside.
- Type A involves ascending aorta and requires immediate cardiothoracic surgeon, Type B does not.
- CT Angio is the study of choice in stable patients
- Normal CXR in 12% of patients. Abnormal findings include wide mediastinum, abnormal aortic contour, pleural effusion, and wall Ca+ displacement
- If no clinically apparent aortic insufficiency or CHF, then treat first with labetalol/esmolol then nitroprusside.