PAEA Surgery End Of Rotation (EOR) Practice Exam

What medications are typically used to manage Type III or B aortic dissections?

1. Anticoagulants

2. Blood pressure medications

3. Diuretics

4. Pain management medications

The correct answer is: Blood pressure medications

Type III or type B aortic dissections are characterized by a tear in the aorta that occurs distal to the left subclavian artery. The primary goal in managing these dissections is to control blood pressure and reduce the stress on the arterial wall to prevent further complications, such as rupture or progression of the dissection. Blood pressure medications, particularly beta-blockers, are a mainstay in the management of type B aortic dissections. These medications help to lower both systolic blood pressure and heart rate, thereby decreasing the shear stress on the aortic wall and minimizing the risk of further dissection. In some cases, other antihypertensives might be added to create a comprehensive approach to blood pressure control, but the focus remains on reducing the overall incidence of complications through effective blood pressure management. While anticoagulants, diuretics, and pain management medications may play roles in the broader context of cardiovascular health and symptom control, they do not address the critical need for blood pressure stabilization that is essential in managing type B aortic dissections.