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A dissecting aneurysm is a serious condition where the inner layer of the aorta, the artery that carries blood from the heart, tears. This tear allows blood to flow between the layers of the aortic wall, causing them to separate. This condition is often associated with atherosclerosis, a hardening of the arteries, and high blood pressure. Symptoms can include severe chest pain. A secondary rupture of the outer wall can lead to fatal internal bleeding. Diagnosis is typically made through imaging techniques like CT scans or MRI. Treatment for large aneurysms may involve surgery to replace the damaged section of the aorta with a synthetic graft.12

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