PAEA Surgery End Of Rotation (EOR) Practice Exam

What condition is defined by a separation of the walls of the aorta due to an intimal tear?

1. Aortic aneurysm

2. Aortic dissection

3. Aortic rupture

4. Aortic fibrosis

The correct answer is: Aortic dissection

Aortic dissection is characterized by a separation of the layers of the aorta, which occurs due to a tear in the intimal layer of the vessel wall. This condition leads to the formation of a false lumen within the aorta, where blood can flow between the layers of the aortic wall. As the tear propagates, it can cause severe complications, including rupture or occlusion of vital arteries branching from the aorta, resulting in life-threatening scenarios. Understanding the mechanics is crucial. The initial tear allows blood to dissect along the vessel wall, which is what distinguishes aortic dissection from other conditions involving the aorta. For example, an aortic aneurysm involves a localized dilation of the aortic wall, not a dissecting tear affecting the structure in a similar manner. Aortic rupture refers to a situation where the aorta completely breaks apart, which frequently follows a dissection but is a later, more severe consequence. Aortic fibrosis, conversely, pertains to the pathological thickening and stiffness of the aorta due to scar tissue but does not imply a tearing or dissection of the vessel wall. Thus, the defining feature of aortic dissection is the presence of an intimal tear that leads to the separation of the