A 68-year-old male with a history of hypertension and hyperlipidemia presents with sudden, excruciating tearing chest pain radiating to his back. His blood pressure is 180/110 mmHg in the right arm and 160/90 mmHg in the left arm. A CTA chest confirms acute aortic dissection involving the ascending aorta. What is the immediate pharmacological goal?
✓ Correct Answer: Option B
In acute aortic dissection, the immediate goal is to rapidly reduce both heart rate and blood pressure to decrease aortic shear stress. Beta-blockers like labetalol or esmolol are preferred for their dual effect on heart rate and blood pressure.