125 - UPDATE ON MANAGEMENT OF TYPE B AORTIC DISSECTION

Co-Chair(s)

• KR

  Kenton Rommens, MD FRCSC

  Vascular Surgeon
  University of Calgary
  University of Calgary
• 

  Thomas Lindsay, MD FRCSC (he/him/his)

  Professor of Surgery
  University Health Network/ University of Toronto
  University of Toronto

Presenter(s)

• 

  Elisa Greco, MD FRCSC

  University of Toronto
  University of Toronto
• 

  Scott McClure, MD FRCSC (he/him/his)

  Cardiac Surgeon, Associate Professor
  CSCS
  University of Calgary
• 

  Holly Smith, MD FRCSC

  Cardiac Surgeon
  CSCS
  University of Calgary

Moderator(s)

• 

  Michelle Keir, MD FRCPC (she/her/hers)

  Clinical Associate Professor
  Libin Cardiovascular Institute, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary
  University of Calgary

Workshop Description: This workshop on Type B Aortic Dissection Management will provide a comprehensive and clinically focused review for healthcare professionals to enhance their understanding and practical skills in diagnosing, evaluating, and managing this complex aortic emergency. Designed for cardiac surgeons, interventional radiologists, cardiologists, vascular surgeons, and trainees, the session emphasized evidence-based strategies and multidisciplinary collaboration essential for optimal patient outcomes.

The workshop will feature an overview of the pathophysiology and classification of aortic dissections, with a specific focus on Stanford Type B dissections. Distinguished faculty will highlight key differences between complicated and uncomplicated cases, outlining the diagnostic criteria and risk factors that influence decision-making. Through interactive case discussions, participants will be exposed to a variety of patient presentations, including acute chest or back pain, hypertension, and signs of malperfusion.

The core of the workshop will focus on management strategies, from initial medical therapy to endovascular and surgical interventions. Medical stabilization through blood pressure and heart rate control or early TEVAR will be discussed for treatment in uncomplicated cases. For complicated dissections—those involving organ malperfusion, aneurysmal degeneration, or refractory pain—the role of thoracic endovascular aortic repair (TEVAR) will be examined. Faculty will share tips for procedural planning, device selection, access management, and post-TEVAR surveillance.
This will be complemented by insights into long-term surveillance protocols and lifestyle modifications to reduce recurrence and progression.

The workshop will conclude with a multidisciplinary panel discussion on challenging cases, fostering collaborative problem-solving and highlighting the importance of teamwork in managing complex aortic pathologies. The session will equip participants with updated clinical guidelines, procedural techniques, and a collaborative framework for the effective management of Type B aortic dissections.