Aortic Dissection

THE past three decades have witnessed dramatic advances in the management of aortic dissection. In this report, we will review old and new concepts in the diagnosis and treatment of this still lethal disease.The term "aneurysme dissequant" — i.e., dissecting aneurysm — was first coined by Laennec in 1819 and has been used to refer to the condition ever since. However, although the aorta is frequently enlarged, it is rarely aneurysmal, and it is actually a hematoma that dissects. Hence, the simple term "aortic dissection," a more accurate description of the disorder, has gained favor in recent years and . . .