Progressive pregnancy-associated aortic dissection requiring eventual replacement of the entire aorta

Abstract

Aortic dissection in the setting of pregnancy and peripartum period presents a rare challenge, and can be fatal, particularly in the setting of connective tissue disorders. Familial aortopathies and connective tissue disease must be considered when young patients present with complex aortic disease. Although there is a historical precedent for open surgical repair in these cases within the vascular surgery community, little is published on the efficacy of endovascular strategies. Herein, we present a case of a young woman who developed an aortic dissection associated with pregnancy requiring staged open surgical and endovascular reconstruction for her complex aortic disease.