Aortic Dissection

What actually happens

The wall of the aorta has layers. In an aortic dissection:

A tear forms in the inner layer of the aorta. Blood rushes into the tear and splits (dissects) the layers apart. This creates a false channel where blood flows abnormally.

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Why it's dangerous

It can reduce blood flow to vital organs (brain, kidneys, heart). The aorta can rupture, causing massive internal bleeding, It can be rapidly fatal without treatment.

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Symptoms (often sudden and severe)

• Sharp, tearing chest pain (can radiate to the back)
• Pain may move as the dissection progresses
• Shortness of breath
• Fainting or dizziness
• Stroke-like symptoms (if blood flow to brain is affected)

Types (simplified)

Type A (ascending aorta) → most dangerous, usually needs emergency surgery
Type B (descending aorta) → sometimes managed with medication, sometimes intervention

Risk factors

• High blood pressure (most common)

• Connective tissue disorders (e.g., Marfan syndrome)

• Atherosclerosis

• Trauma

• Older age

Bottom line

An aortic dissection is a medical emergency. If someone has sudden severe chest or back pain, especially described as “tearing,” they need immediate medical attention.

How can we help?

Our doctors are professionally trained and experienced in managing Aortic Dissection. We work with you to produce a treatment plan that suit your needs.

European Society for Vascular Surgery (ESVS) Podcasts: Aortic Dissections - The Asian Perspective with P. Robless

How common are aortic dissections in Asia, and why do some patients appear to present nearly a decade earlier than in Western cohorts? Laurence Bertrand speaks with Dr. Peter Robless, founder of vascular surgery at the National University Hospital of Singapore and former President of the Asian Society for Vascular Surgery, about Asian epidemiology, treatment approaches, and evolving endovascular practice.