Sequential computed tomography documentation of acute type A aortic dissection progressing to rupture
Jin Kato1, Mio Kasai1, Mitsuharu Mori1
1Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Saiseikai Utsunomiya Hospital, 911-1 Takebayashimachi, Utsunomiya, Tochigi, 321-0974 Japan.
Abstract:
We report a rare case of aortic dissection with radiologically documented rupture. A 65-year-old man presented with sudden loss of consciousness. Sequential computed tomography (CT), first non-contrast, then contrast-enhanced- captured the transition from dissection to rupture, revealing the intimal tear at the dorsal aspect of aortic root and increase of pericardial sac perforation. This case demonstrates the power of imaging to anatomically pinpoint rupture intermittently, with potential implications for emergent diagnosis.
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