Definitions-acute aortic syndromes

(Circ 2010;121:e266; Eur Heart J 2012;33:26)

• Aortic dissection:
  • intimal tear
  • → blood extravasates into Ao media (creates false lumen)
• Intramural hematoma (IMH):
  • vasa vasorum rupture
  • → medial hemorrhage that does not communicate with aortic lumen;
  • 6% of aortic syndromes;
  • clinically managed as AoD
• Penetrating ulcer:
  • atherosclerotic plaque penetrates elastic lamina
  • → medial hemorrhage