The Stanford classifcation is used in this report - how is this used?
Type A dissections involve the ascending aorta and arch and are a surgical emergency. Type B dissections do not involve the main branches of the aortic arch and are generally managed medically with blood pressure control. See the related article below for further information.
If left untreated, what is the mortality assoicated with type A aortic dissections?
From established studies, the risk in the first 48 hours is said to increase by 1% every hour, with a one-month mortality risk estimated at >80%.
Good enhancement of pulmonary vasculature. Intimal flap with calcification noted in aorta and scan re-protocolled and repeated.
Good opacification of thoracic and abdominal aorta. Dissection flap arising ~4 cm from sinus of Valsalva and extending to origin of left subclavian. No extension in great vessels or coronary circulation. Maximal arch diameter of 4.4 cm.
Trace of pericardial fluid and small bilateral pleural effusions.
No major abdominal or pelvic abnormalities (from full scan).