The recent death of South Carolina Sen. Lindsey Graham at age 71 has brought renewed attention to aortic dissection, a serious and often fatal cardiovascular emergency. Preliminary reports indicated Graham's death was caused by an aortic dissection due to arteriosclerotic cardiovascular disease, according to a statement from his office. An aortic dissection occurs when the inner layers of the aorta, the body's largest artery, tear apart.
Dr. Marc Siegel, a senior medical analyst for Fox News, explained that the condition can develop rapidly, sometimes within minutes or days, and can be difficult to recognize. While dissections can progress over time, symptoms frequently appear suddenly.
Notable Figures Lost to Aortic Dissection
Senator Graham is not the only public figure whose life was tragically cut short by this condition. Actor John Ritter, best known for the sitcom "Three's Company," died from an aortic dissection on September 11, 2003. At the time of his death, Ritter was undergoing treatment for symptoms initially believed to be a heart attack.
The John Ritter Foundation for Aortic Health, established in his honor to fund research and raise awareness, noted that Graham's death has drawn "needed attention" to the condition. Meredith Ford O'Neal, CEO of the foundation, stated that deaths from aortic dissections are preventable if at-risk individuals are identified and treated properly, emphasizing that these cases highlight that aortic dissections are a significant cause of mortality.
Actor Alan Thicke died from a Type A aortic dissection on December 13, 2016, at the age of 69. Thicke reportedly experienced chest pain while playing hockey with his son and was subsequently hospitalized. The Los Angeles County coroner determined his death was due to a ruptured aorta caused by a Type A dissection.
Rep. Doug LaMalfa, R-Calif., died on January 6, 2026, at age 65 from complications of an aortic dissection, with cardiomegaly (an enlarged heart) also noted as a significant condition. His death was ruled natural by the Butte County Sheriff's Office. LaMalfa underwent emergency surgery but passed away during the procedure.
Understanding Aortic Dissection
Dr. Neel Mansukhani, a vascular surgeon at Northwestern Medicine, described the aorta as the main blood vessel originating from the heart, supplying blood to all internal organs, limbs, and the brain. The aorta has three layers, and a tear in its lining causes these layers to separate, a process he likened to paint peeling off a wall. The consequences of such a tear depend on its location.
Factors that can increase the risk of aortic dissection include an enlarged aorta or damage to the vessel wall from cardiovascular disease. However, age and high blood pressure remain the primary risk factors. As individuals age, blood vessels can weaken, and the constant pressure of blood flow can make the aortic wall more susceptible to tearing.
Type A dissections, which involve the ascending aorta near the heart, are considered immediately life-threatening and typically require emergency surgery within 24 hours if the patient can tolerate it. Type B dissections, located further down the aorta, can also be life-threatening but do not usually necessitate immediate surgical intervention.
While aortic dissections can occur suddenly and without warning, maintaining good cardiovascular health and managing conditions like high blood pressure can help mitigate the risk. Doctors stress the importance of recognizing warning signs and seeking prompt medical attention.