Gefäßdissektion

Gefäßdissektion refers to a tear in the inner lining of a blood vessel, most commonly an artery. This tear allows blood to enter the wall of the vessel, separating its layers and potentially forming a blood clot. The weakened vessel wall can then bulge or narrow, obstructing blood flow. Gefäßdissektion can occur in any artery, but is most frequently seen in the carotid arteries in the neck, which supply blood to the brain, and the aorta, the largest artery in the body.

Causes of gefäßdissektion can be spontaneous or related to trauma. Spontaneous dissections may be linked to underlying connective tissue disorders like Marfan syndrome or Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, or conditions that affect blood vessel health such as high blood pressure or atherosclerosis. Traumatic dissections can result from direct injury to the neck or chest, or from sudden forceful movements, like those experienced in car accidents or contact sports.

Symptoms vary depending on the location and severity of the dissection. Carotid artery dissection can cause sudden, severe head or neck pain, stroke-like symptoms such as weakness, numbness, vision changes, or difficulty speaking. Aortic dissection often presents with sudden, severe chest or back pain, described as tearing or ripping. Other symptoms can include shortness of breath, dizziness, or fainting.

Diagnosis typically involves imaging techniques like CT angiography, MRI, or ultrasound to visualize the blood vessel and identify the dissection. Treatment strategies depend on the affected artery and the extent of the dissection. Options range from medication to prevent blood clots and manage blood pressure, to surgical repair or endovascular interventions to restore blood flow and reinforce the weakened vessel wall. Early recognition and treatment are crucial to prevent serious complications such as stroke or aortic rupture.