In certain conditions, such as in severe arteriovascular disease, the wall of the aorta can split longitudinally, creating a false channel, which may or may not rejoin into the true lumen distally (Fig. 3.91). This aortic dissection occurs between the intima and media anywhere along its length. If it occurs in the ascending aorta or arch of the aorta, blood flow in the coronary and cerebral arteries may be disrupted, resulting in myocardial infarction or stroke. In the abdomen the visceral vessels may be disrupted, producing ischemia to the gut or kidneys.