angiographic dissection
A tear in the coronary artery wall visible on angiography, classified by standardized grading systems based on severity and extent.
Full Definition
Angiographic dissection refers to a disruption of the coronary arterial wall layers that creates a false lumen, typically occurring as a complication of percutaneous coronary intervention or spontaneously. The National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute classification system grades dissections from Type A (minor radiolucency) to Type F (extensive dissection with impaired flow). Flow-limiting dissections (Types C-F) often require immediate treatment with stent implantation or balloon inflation to prevent vessel closure. Spontaneous coronary artery dissection (SCAD) represents a distinct entity more common in younger women. Proper documentation requires specific classification and immediate management description.
Usage
Usage note: Always include dissection type classification when editing procedural reports; distinguish from spontaneous dissection in appropriate clinical contexts.
In Context
- "A Type B angiographic dissection was observed but did not compromise coronary flow." — Complication report
- "The extensive angiographic dissection required emergency stent placement to restore vessel patency." — Urgent intervention note