Acute aortic syndromes, including dissections, intramural hematomas, penetrating ulcers, and aneurysms, are life-threatening emergencies that require prompt diagnosis and treatment. Successful treatment depends on early diagnosis and early transfer to a specialized care facility.

The M Health Fairview Aortic Center, brings together skilled vascular surgeons, cardiothoracic surgeons, interventional radiologists, cardiologists and anesthesiologists, all dedicated to aortic disease care. At our specialized aortic care facility, physicians and surgeons perform complex aortic repairs in a state-of-the-art, hybrid operating room at University of Minnesota Medical Center.

Because acute aortic syndrome survival is closely tied to time to effective treatment, the care team at the M Health Aortic Center has implemented the Aortic Center Emergency Triage Line for physicians. When a referring provider places a call to the triage line, they are connected to a vascular surgeon, a cardiovascular/thoracic surgeon, and an emergency department attending physician. The team jointly decides on an immediate action plan for the patient. Quick action can make a difference when treating acute aortic syndromes.