Aortic Aneurysm and Aortic Dissection - GADA Canada

An aortic aneurysm is a permanent, localized enlargement of the aorta to more than 50% of its normal diameter. An aortic dissection (or tear) is defined as a disruption of the medial layer of the aorta resulting in bleeding within and along the wall of the aorta and separation of the layers of the wall of the aorta. Although most aortic dissections are preceded by an aneurysm, some dissections can occur without significant enlargement of the aorta.