coronary artery dissection
A tear in the arterial wall creating a false lumen, classified by angiographic appearance from Type A through Type F.
Full Definition
Coronary artery dissection involves a disruption of the arterial wall integrity resulting in separation of the vessel layers and creation of a false lumen. The condition can occur spontaneously or as a complication of percutaneous coronary intervention. Dissections are classified using the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI) system from Type A (minor radiolucent area) through Type F (filling defect with total occlusion). Management depends on dissection severity, with minor dissections often managed conservatively while extensive dissections may require immediate stenting or surgical intervention. Flow-limiting dissections can cause acute vessel closure and require emergent treatment.
Usage
Usage note: Always specify dissection type when documented. Distinguish from perforation which involves full-thickness wall breach.
In Context
- "Post-balloon inflation angiography revealed a Type C dissection with spiral extension requiring immediate stent placement." — Procedural complication report
- "The spontaneous coronary artery dissection was managed conservatively given preserved TIMI 3 flow." — Clinical case presentation