dissection flap
Torn arterial intimal layer creating a mobile tissue fragment that may obstruct blood flow.
Full Definition
A dissection flap refers to a torn or separated portion of the arterial intimal layer that creates a mobile tissue fragment extending into the vessel lumen. Dissections can occur spontaneously due to underlying arteriopathy or iatrogenically during interventional procedures. The flap may be flow-limiting if it significantly reduces the effective luminal area, or non-flow-limiting if it does not substantially impede blood flow. Angiographically, dissections appear as linear filling defects, contrast staining, or spiral-shaped lucencies. The severity is often classified using systems such as the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI) classification. Management depends on the location, extent, and hemodynamic significance of the dissection.
Usage
Usage note: Two words, no hyphenation. Often qualified as 'flow-limiting' or 'non-flow-limiting'.
In Context
- "A small non-flow-limiting dissection flap was noted at the distal edge of the balloon inflation site." — Post-angioplasty assessment
- "The dissection flap was successfully tacked down with stent placement." — Complication management report