Extensive aortic dissection complicated by hemopericardium and cardiac tamponade: a fulminant presentation

Abstract

Acute aortic syndrome includes various conditions such as aortic dissection, which has a high mortality rate. We present the case of a 67-year-old hypertensive male who presented with severe epigastric pain and hemodynamic instability. CT angiography revealed extensive aortic dissection from the aortic valve to the iliac artery bifurcation. A focused cardiac ultrasound showed aortic dilation and severe hemopericardium. During surgical preparation, the patient developed cardiac tamponade and cardiac arrest, dying despite resuscitation. This case highlights the atypical presentation of extensive aortic dissection and the value of cardiac ultrasound in emergency settings.