Aortic dissection, a diagnostic dilemma: case report.

A case of type I (type A) aortic dissection proved by postmortem examination could not be fully delineated relative to the type of dissection by dynamic CT as well as three positive contrast aortograms. Small tears in the ascending aorta and their strategic locations can escape even intensive radiologic evaluation. We present a case in which medical therapy was provided and, inappropriately, surgery was not performed.