Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 16, 2026
06:26
Novel and Innovative Hybrid Technique for Type A Aortic Dissection
Published on: March 28, 2025
Aortic dissection with extension to a patent ductus arteriosus
Emir Festic1, Robert M Steiner, Eileen Spatz
1Department of Medicine, New York Methodist Hospital, New York, NY, USA.
The International Journal of Cardiovascular Imaging
|July 28, 2005
Summary
An elderly patient presented with shortness of breath and fever. Enhanced CT revealed an aortic arch dissection re-opening a patent ductus arteriosus, a previously unsuspected condition.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Radiology
- Vascular Surgery
Background:
- Aortic dissection is a serious cardiovascular emergency.
- Patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) is a congenital heart defect.
- Co-occurrence of aortic dissection and PDA is rare.
Observation:
- An 81-year-old woman presented with dyspnea and fever.
- Enhanced chest CT revealed an aortic arch dissection.
- The dissection communicated with the true lumen of a patent ductus arteriosus.
Findings:
- The aortic dissection was not suspected prior to imaging.
- The patent ductus arteriosus was also not suspected.
- Aortic dissection propagation likely re-opened the PDA.
Implications:
- This case suggests a novel mechanism for PDA re-opening.
- It highlights the importance of considering complex aortic pathologies.
- Further research may elucidate the frequency of this association.
Related Concept Videos
01:15Aortic Regurgitation I: Introduction
IntroductionAortic regurgitation is characterized by the backward flow of blood from the aorta into the left ventricle during diastole and arises from the improper closure of the aortic valve. This condition results in left ventricular volume overload and can stem from both acute and chronic etiologies, each contributing uniquely to the disease's progression and symptomatology.Acute and Chronic CausesAcute aortic regurgitation often results from events that suddenly impair the integrity of the...
01:30Aneurysm I: Introduction
An aortic aneurysm is a localized outpouching or dilation at a weak point in the artery wall. It may involve different parts of the aorta, such as the abdominal aorta, aortic arch, or thoracic aorta.Etiological factorsSeveral disorders are associated with aortic aneurysms.Congenital causes, such as primary connective tissue disorders like Marfan syndrome, impact the integrity and strength of connective tissues, notably affecting the aorta. Marfan syndrome is a genetic disorder that specifically...
01:26Aneurysm III: Interprofessional Care
Aneurysm management involves either conservative medical therapy or surgical intervention, depending on the size and symptoms of the aneurysm. Conservative management is generally reserved for smaller, asymptomatic aneurysms, while larger or symptomatic aneurysms often necessitate surgical repair.Conservative Medical TherapyFor small, asymptomatic aneurysms, particularly abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAA) less than 5.5 centimeters in diameter, conservative medical therapy is recommended. This...
01:21Aneurysm II: Clinical Manifestations and Diagnostic Studies
Thoracic, aortic arch and abdominal aneurysms are significant vascular conditions that can present with various clinical manifestations and lead to serious complications. Understanding these manifestations and the appropriate diagnostic studies is essential for effective management and treatment.Thoracic Aortic AneurysmsThoracic aortic aneurysms often remain asymptomatic until they reach a size that impinges on adjacent structures. They typically cause deep, diffuse chest pain that radiates to...
01:22Aortic Regurgitation II: Clinical Features and Diagnostic Tests
Aortic valve regurgitation (AR) occurs when the aortic valve fails to close properly, allowing blood to flow backward from the aorta into the left ventricle. This backflow can result in two distinct clinical presentations: acute and chronic AR, each characterized by its own set of symptoms and physical findings.Acute Aortic RegurgitationAcute AR presents with a sudden onset of severe symptoms. Patients typically experience profound dyspnea (shortness of breath), chest pain, and signs of left...
01:15Thoracic Aorta
The thoracic section of the aorta begins at the T5 vertebra and extends to the T12 level at the diaphragm, initially progressing through the mediastinum to the left of the spinal column. Throughout its course in the thoracic segment, the thoracic aorta emits various offshoots known collectively as visceral and parietal branches. The branches that predominantly supply blood to visceral organs are termed visceral branches and include bronchial, pericardial, esophageal, and mediastinal arteries,...