Aortic dissection involving the ascending aorta (type A) is a life-threatening emergency that should usually be treated surgically. In type A dissections mortality can be up to 80% in those treated nonoperatively versus 10% to 20% when treated surgically.

Uncomplicated aortic dissection involving the descending thoracic aorta (type B) can often be treated with aggressive blood pressure control; however, endovascular stenting or surgery may be needed in some type B patients, especially those with complications (e.g. malperfusion; refractory pain, progression of dissection; aneurysmal expansion; uncontrolled hypertension).