A dissecting aneurysm of the aorta can be classified based on its anatomic location and extent. Two commonly used classification schemes are those proposed by DeBakey and at Stanford University.
Findings
DeBakey Type
Stanford Type
rupture in the ascending aorta near the aortic valve, with extension along the descending aorta as far as the external iliac arteries
I
A
rupture in the ascending aorta near the aortic valve, limited to the ascending aorta
II
A
rupture distal to the left subclavian artery with extension along the descending aorta limited to within the thorax
IIIA
B
rupture distal to the left subclavian artery with extension along the descending aorta to involve the abdominal aorta
IIIB
B
Management based on Type:
(1) A Type A dissection is usually treated by emergency surgery.
(2) A Type B dissection is often treated medically with antihypertensive agents and observation.
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