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Complex, traumatic rupture of the thoracic aorta in a child: diagnostic findings and delayed surgery

Tanja Dörnhöfer1, Hans-Peter Dinkel, Thierry Carrel

  • 1Department of Radiology, DRNN, Inselspital, University of Bern, Freiburgstrasse, 3010 Bern, Switzerland. tanja.doernhoefer@insel.ch

European Radiology
|June 4, 2002
PubMed

Insights

This case study details a rare traumatic aortic rupture in a 4-year-old girl. Prompt diagnosis and surgical repair led to a full recovery, highlighting successful intervention for pediatric aortic injuries.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Surgery
  • Cardiovascular Surgery
  • Trauma Surgery

Background:

  • Traumatic aortic rupture is a rare but life-threatening injury, particularly in pediatric patients.
  • Early diagnosis and intervention are critical for improving outcomes in cases of aortic arch disruption.

Observation:

  • A 4-year-old girl presented with an enlarged mediastinum on chest X-ray following trauma.
  • Diagnostic imaging, including spiral CT and transthoracic echocardiography, revealed a mediastinal hematoma, pleural effusion, and aortic arch rupture.

Findings:

  • Surgical exploration confirmed aortic arch rupture with associated vessel dislocation.
  • Vascular repair was successfully performed, addressing the traumatic aortic injury.
  • The patient experienced no surgical complications.

Implications:

  • This case underscores the importance of advanced imaging in diagnosing pediatric traumatic aortic injuries.
  • Successful surgical management of aortic arch rupture in a child demonstrates the feasibility of complex vascular repair.
  • Complete recovery highlights the potential for favorable long-term outcomes following timely and effective treatment.

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