Self-healing of type B acute aortic dissection after aortic valve replacement: a case report

Abstract Background As a life-threatening and serious condition, aortic dissection (AD) is divided into type A and B according to its association with the ascending or descending aorta. Type A AD is often accompanied by aortic regurgitation, while type B dissections are rarely accompanied by severe aortic regurgitation. Case presentation We present a 71 year-old Chinese man with a rare case of type B AD with severe aortic insufficiency, who self-healed after 1 year of an aortic valve replacement. He complained of chest tightness and abdominal pain. Due to poor cardiac function, he underwent aortic valve replacement before intervening on the dissection. The operation was successful, and the dissection was treated conservatively. During the 1-year follow-up, his chest tightness improved, and the type B dissection was healed. His general condition is considerably improved. Conclusions In type B AD combined with severe aortic insufficiency, aortic valve replacement should be prioritized. This is potentially explained by the aortic root activity and pulse pressure difference.