Extensive dissection requiring multiple stents following balloon angioplasty for non-specific aorto-arteritis

Discrete stenoses of the thoraco-abdominal aorta in non-specific aorto-arteritis are considered favorable lesions for balloon angioplasty characterized by good results without major complications. Herein, we describe one such case manifesting with severe hypertension, left ventricular dysfunction and congestive heart failure treated by angioplasty. Balloon dilatation, however, resulted in extensive dissection requiring implantation of two Wallstents. Over a follow-up of one year, hypertension remained under good control with fewer drugs and symptom relief was maintained. Left ventricular ejection fraction improved from 35% to 61%.