The aorta is the largest and most important blood vessel in the body. Originating from the heart, this aorta transports much-needed nutrients to the chest, abdomen, and legs. An aortic dissection occurs when the inner lining of the artery ruptures. Blood then floods the tear resulting in the separation (dissection) of its inner and central layers. If blood overflows beyond the outer wall of the aorta, aortic dissection can often result in death. Aortic dissection represents the most frequent trauma of the aorta and is 2-3 times more prevalent than abdominal aortic tearing.