Dissection of the aorta is not an uncommon condition, nor is it as lethal as was previously considered. The correct diagnosis and ensuing management depend as much on the index of suspicion of the attending doctor as on the prompt planning of noninvasive and invasive investigations. Most patients can be treated conservatively in the initial stages by means of appropriate hypotensive pharmaceutical agents. Surgery offers a better chance of survival for proximal dissection, whereas long-term medical management is indicated in the distal dissection in the absence of severe complications.
