An aortic aneurysm occurs when a weak aortic wall stretches, causing it to bulge. An aortic dissection occurs when there’s a tear in the aortic wall, which can be fatal if not treated immediately. The ...

An aortic aneurysm is defined as a permanent dilation of the aortic diameter of more than 50% of its original size due to structural weakening of the aortic wall. It may occur in either the thoracic ...

A 74-year-old man presents to the emergency department with a 1-day history of severe chest and back pain. He has a history of hypertension and has run out of medication. He has no history of similar ...

When you feel sudden severe chest or upper back pain, it's easy to assume what's happening is a heart attack. It could be, but it could also be an aortic dissection -- a condition that can be severe ...