Acute aortic syndromes include aortic dissection, penetrating atherosclerotic ulcer, and intramural hematomas, but aortic dissection is the most common and the deadliest. This review summarizes the latest evidence on developing a differential for aortic dissection when common complaints, such as chest pain, abdominal pain, and syncope are also present. Recent evidence on the optimal uses of emergency department imaging studies and risk stratification tools are reviewed, along with special considerations in the management of penetrating atherosclerotic ulcer and intramural hematoma. Pharmacologic therapies for managing hemodynamic parameters and shock, and indications for operative intervention are also reviewed, along with cutting-edge diagnostic and treatment options on the horizon.
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Following are the most informative references cited in this paper, as determined by the authors.
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Keywords: aortic syndromes, dissection, aortic hematoma, penetrating atherosclerotic ulcer, Marfan, Ehler-Danlos, thoracic, Stanford, DeBakey, hypertension, syncope, ADD-RS, D-dimer, TEE, TTE, beta blocker, calcium-channel blocker, vasodilator, TEVAR, contrast
Anthony Hackett, DO, FACEP, FAAEM, FRSM; Jonathan Stuart, DO, MS; Douglas L. Robinson, DO, MS
Daniel Eraso, MD; Trevor Pour, MD
December 1, 2021
December 1, 2024   CME Information
4 AMA PRA Category 1 Credits™, 4 ACEP Category I Credits, 4 AAFP Prescribed Credits, 4 AOA Category 2-A or 2-B Credits.
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Anthony Hackett, DO, FACEP, FAAEM, FRSM; Jonathan Stuart, DO, MS; Douglas L. Robinson, DO, MS
Daniel Eraso, MD; Trevor Pour, MD
December 1, 2021
December 1, 2024
4 AMA PRA Category 1 Credits™, 4 ACEP Category I Credits, 4 AAFP Prescribed Credits, 4 AOA Category 2-A or 2-B Credits.
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