Postpartum aortic dissection

Abstract

Postpartum aortic dissection is a rare but lethal event. Until now, only a limited number of cases have been reported, and a comprehensive literature review from 1988 to 2012 yielded 27 cases. Postpartum aortic dissection occurred between Day 1 and Day 42 after delivery, either vaginally or by cesarean section. Pregnancy alone without underlying contributing risk factors and Marfan syndrome were the two main risk factors for postpartum aortic dissection, accounting for 44.4% and 40.7% of cases, respectively. Late presentation and delayed diagnosis may lead to sudden death. Improving prenatal and peripartum care is, therefore, crucial in preventing the development of aortic dissection. Prompt diagnosis and timely treatment of postpartum aortic dissection may prevent patient death.

Keywords: Marfan syndrome; bicuspid aortic valve; cardiac surgery; pregnancy complications; sudden cardiac death.