What are the treatments for the condition?

People with aortic dissection are treated in the hospital. Medical treatment is started to lower the blood pressure and make sure the heart does not pump with too much force. Surgery is needed for many people with this condition. People who have a dissection that is further from the heart are sometimes treated with medications instead of surgery. This is often done if the person is not well enough to withstand surgery. However, these people may need emergency surgery if the aorta starts to leak, gets bigger, or blocks off the blood supply to an organ or limb.

What are the side effects of the treatments?

All surgery carries the risk of infection and bleeding, but, in this case, there is also a very real chance of death. Heart and blood pressure medications may also cause side effects. These may include allergic reactions, stomach upset, or other side effects, depending on the medication used.

What happens after treatment for the condition?

If a person has surgery, the aortic dissection is often "cured." The problem area of the aorta may be cut out, fixed, or bypassed with an artificial graft, or man-made artery. People treated with medications are watched for blood pressure control or symptoms that may require surgery.

How is the condition monitored?

People who have surgery need a period of monitoring during recovery. This is done to make sure the heart and aorta are healing properly. People usually need close monitoring of their heart and blood pressure. Special X-ray tests may be used to follow up on people after surgery. Any new or worsening symptoms should be reported to the healthcare provider.