Thoracic aortic dissection occurs when the intima of the aorta becomes compromised and “tears” or “dissects” a new layer that fills with blood between the intima and the media. This ...

Your aorta is a tube-like structure that resembles a candy cane. The ascending aorta forms the beginning or handle of the cane and originates at the aortic valve. The ascending aorta includes the ...