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Spontaneous aortic arch rupture with pseudoaneurysm and constrictive-effusive pericarditis formation

Timisoara Institute for Cardiovascular Diseases, Str. Gh. Adam, Nr.13A, 1900 Timisoara, Romania

*Corresponding author. Tel.: +40-256-207355; fax: +40-256-207362.

E-mail address: mariangaspar{at}yahoo.com (M. Gaspar).

Spontaneous aortic rupture, without any history of previous thoracic trauma, infection or acute thoracic pain is an extremely rare and potentially life-threatening event. Its diagnosis, in the absence of acute symptoms, is usually delayed and relies on secondary signs. While the etiology is atherosclerotic in most cases, the exact mechanisms of rupture have only recently been uncovered. Treatment may be surgical, endovascular or by a combined procedure, according to the anatomy, location and expertise of the medical team.

Key Words: Aortic arch; Rupture; Pericardium; Aneurysm