ABSTRACT
The topic of aortic aneurysms, dissections and ruptures is a difficult one in terms of the classification and management. First, the common misconception that the thoracic aortic aneurysm is the same as a dissection should be dispelled. These are different entities and their management is different with one exception. When an aortic dissection has persisted for a long period of time, it becomes a chronic aortic dissection which should actually be classified under the term chronic aortic aneurysm. There is no such thing as an acute aortic aneurysm. There is, however, such a thing as an acute aortic dissection. Table 7.1 classifies the etiology, indications for surgery and technique of surgery for acute aortic dissection and chronic aortic aneurysm. Figure 7.1a-c provides a diagrammatic summary of the aortic pathologies and repair techniques.
