De Bakey type I aortic dissection in a patient with idiopathic dilated cardiomyopathy

Aortic dissection is a very rare clinical entity in patients with dilated cardiomyopathy. A 30-year-old man with known dilated cardiomyopathy presented with complaints of dyspnea and fatigue. Physical examination showed increased central venous pressure and a continuous murmur on the right sternal border. Echocardiography revealed severe systolic dysfunction in both ventricles (left EF 20%, right EF 25%), dissection in the ascending aorta, and moderate aortic regurgitation. Thoracoabdominal computed tomography showed that the dissection flap extended from the sinotubular junction to the iliac bifurcation. A diagnosis of De Bakey type I aortic dissection was made. Following Bentall operation, the patient was discharged on the 15th postoperative day.