The aorta is comprised of three layers. In aortic dissection the inner layer is perforated (torn apart). The blood surges through the tear and flows in between the inner and middle layers, through the aorta. The dissection of the layers can impair the blood circulation in the vital organs (heart, brain, kidneys etc.). The aortic dissection surgery is a treatment method for these cases.
The aortic dissections are classified in different ways. The most common classification is:
- Type 1- The entire aorta is dissected.
- Type 2- Only the ascending aorta is dissected.
- Type 3- Only the segment after the subclavian artery is dissected.