Preventing death after traumatic rupture of the aorta. A chest film may help save a life.
Traumatic rupture of the aorta is a life-threatening injury that necessitates immediate diagnosis and surgical repair. Diagnosis depends on recognition of findings on a plain chest film, specifically, mediastinal widening, left hemothorax, and an apical cap sign. Aortography should be done immediately to establish the diagnosis when clinical and/or radiographic findings suggest a rupture.
Montgomery
J L
JL
Department of Radiology, Scott & White Clinic and Hospital, Temple, TX 76508.
D001013:Aorta, Thoracic / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging; D001019:Aortic Rupture / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000209:etiology / Q000628:therapy; D006801:Humans; D011859:Radiography; D013898:Thoracic Injuries / Q000150:complications*; D014949:Wounds, Nonpenetrating / Q000150:complications*