Massive thoracic aortic dissection in the subacute postpartum period in a patient with Marfan syndrome

Abstract

Aortic dissection is a life-threatening condition that can result in rupture, massive hemorrhage, and death. Parturients with Marfan syndrome are at increased risk of aortic dissection due to connective tissue dysfunction and physiologic changes secondary to pregnancy. Aortic dissection typically manifests during the intrapartum period, rather than the postpartum course. This article discusses a case of a parturient with Marfan syndrome who suffered a massive thoracic aortic dissection in the subacute postpartum period after an uncomplicated vaginal delivery.

Abbreviations: CT - computerized tomography; AD - Aortic dissection; MFS - Marfan syndrome; PPD - postpartum day; TEVAR - thoracic endovascular aortic repair; TTE - transthoracic echocardiogram; VAVD - vacuum assisted vaginal delivery; VD - vaginal delivery

Keywords: Marfan Syndrome; Pregnancy; Aortic Dissection; Neuraxial Anesthesia

Citation: Dhoon T, Crain NA, Rahimian R, Rajan GR. Massive thoracic aortic dissection in the subacute postpartum period in a patient with Marfan syndrome. Anaesth. pain intensive care 2024;28(5):964−968; DOI: 10.35975/apic.v28i5.2564

Received: May 09, 2024; Reviewed: August 15, 2024; Accepted: August 15, 2024