[Pre- and postoperative imaging of type B aortic dissection]

Area of Science:

• Cardiovascular Medicine
• Diagnostic Imaging
• Surgical Interventions

Background:

• Type B aortic dissections (TBAD) present a significant challenge with a 5-year survival rate of 60-80%.
• While medical management is standard, surgical intervention becomes necessary for acute/subacute or chronic phase complications.

Purpose of the Study:

• To outline key imaging interpretation points for CT angiography in Type B aortic dissection management.
• To highlight common complications and indications for surgical intervention in TBAD.

Main Methods:

• Review of CT angiography findings in patients with Type B aortic dissection.
• Discussion of imaging criteria for surgical intervention, including aortic diameter and complication assessment.
• Mention of 4D-MRA for precise tear identification in endovascular repair planning.

Main Results:

• Visceral malperfusion is the most frequent acute complication of TBAD.
• Aneurysmal dilatation of the false lumen is the most common chronic complication.
• Surgical intervention is typically indicated when the aorta's axial diameter exceeds 55mm.

Conclusions:

• CT angiography is the primary imaging modality for guiding surgical and endovascular treatment of Type B aortic dissections.
• Familiarity with key imaging findings is essential for timely and appropriate management of TBAD complications.
• Endovascular repair is increasingly favored, necessitating precise imaging for optimal outcomes.