Aortic Dissection

Treatment

Treatment depends on where in the aorta the dissection occurs. Dissection can occur in the aorta where it leaves the heart (the ascending aorta), or in the part of the aorta (descending) that runs down to the rest of the body. If the dissection is in the ascending part of the aorta, it will be treated with surgery. If the dissection is in the descending portion, it may require surgery; a less-invasive, catheter-based procedure; or medications. The goal of medications will primarily be to lower blood pressure.