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Spontaneous Regression of a Large Iatrogenic Dissection of the Ascending Aorta
Aurélien Roumy1, Matthias Kirsch1, René Prêtre1
1Cardiovascular Surgery Department, University Hospital of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland.
Insights
A large iatrogenic ascending aorta dissection, caused during coronary angioplasty, completely resolved with medical therapy alone. This suggests conservative management may be effective for uncomplicated cases.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Vascular Surgery
- Radiology
Background:
- Iatrogenic aortic dissection is a rare but serious complication during cardiac procedures.
- Ascending aorta dissection requires careful evaluation and management strategies.
Observation:
- A 74-year-old woman developed an iatrogenic ascending aorta dissection post-coronary angioplasty.
- Initial computed tomography (CT) revealed a large false lumen involving the ascending aorta.
Findings:
- The patient remained hemodynamically stable and asymptomatic on medical therapy alone.
- Serial CT scans demonstrated complete regression of the false lumen within 3 days.
Implications:
- Uncomplicated iatrogenic ascending aorta dissections, regardless of size, may be successfully managed non-surgically.
- This case highlights the potential efficacy of conservative medical management in select aortic dissection cases.
Abstract:
A 74-year-old woman was admitted for right coronary angioplasty. During the procedure, she complained about chest pain, and contrast injection showed an iatrogenic dissection of the ascending aorta. A contrast computed tomography (CT) scan confirmed the diagnosis via visualization of a large non-circulating false lumen, which involved nearly the entire ascending aorta. The patient remained hemodynamically stable and asymptomatic while receiving medical therapy alone. Another CT scan performed 3 days later showed complete regression of the false lumen. This case suggests that uncomplicated iatrogenic dissection of the ascending aorta, even when large, may be managed successfully by medical therapy.
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