Iatrogenic Acute Aortic Dissection Complicating Coronary Catheterization

Coronary dissection extending to the ascending aorta is an uncommon complication of invasive coronary procedures which carries a life-threatening risk. The performance of percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) at centers without emergency surgical instruments has increased awareness of potential complications. We report a case of iatrogenic aortocoronary dissection in a patient admitted with acute myocardial infarction (AMI) who was treated during angioplasty.

The responsible mechanism for the occurrence of aortic dissection during PCI remains to be discovered. In this case, brisk sealing of the entry site of the dissection with a stent to prevent extension of the aortic dissection appears to be safe and feasible, with good short- and long-term outcomes.