vessel wall dissection
Pathological separation of arterial wall layers creating a false lumen, visible as intimal flaps or dual lumens on imaging.
Full Definition
Vessel wall dissection involves the pathological separation of arterial wall layers, typically between the intima and media, creating a false lumen that may communicate with the true lumen through entry and re-entry tears. Imaging characteristics include intimal flaps appearing as linear filling defects, dual lumens with differential contrast opacification, and associated complications such as malperfusion or rupture. Acute dissections require urgent evaluation for extension, branch vessel involvement, and hemodynamic compromise. Classification systems (Stanford, DeBakey) guide treatment decisions. Chronic dissections may show intimal calcification, false lumen thrombosis, and aneurysmal degeneration requiring long-term surveillance.
Usage
Usage note: Specify classification (Stanford/DeBakey), extent, and branch vessel involvement for comprehensive reporting.
In Context
- "CT angiography revealed Stanford Type A vessel wall dissection extending from the ascending aorta to the arch." — Emergency aortic imaging report
- "Chronic vessel wall dissection of the right vertebral artery showed false lumen thrombosis without hemodynamic significance." — Cervical vessel follow-up study