Aortic dissection is a serious medical condition characterized by a tear in the inner layer of the aorta, the main artery that carries blood from the heart to the rest of the body. This tear allows blood to flow between the layers of the aortic wall, causing the layers to separate and potentially lead to a life-threatening rupture. Aortic dissection is a medical emergency that requires immediate treatment, and risk factors for this condition include high blood pressure, atherosclerosis, and certain genetic conditions. Treatment for aortic dissection typically involves surgery to repair the damaged portion of the aorta and manage symptoms. Research in this area focuses on understanding the underlying causes of aortic dissection, improving diagnosis and treatment methods, and identifying ways to prevent this condition in at-risk individuals.