Jaime Tisnado MD, Presenter: Nothing to Disclose

William Cory Fox MD, Abstract Co-Author: Nothing to Disclose

Jamie Tisnado MD, Abstract Co-Author: Nothing to Disclose

Malcolm Kennedy Sydnor MD, Abstract Co-Author: Nothing to Disclose

Daniel John Komorowski MD, Abstract Co-Author: Nothing to Disclose

ATRTA is a well known entity, but has not been well described. ATRAA is less common than ATRTA, but is associated with significant morbidity and mortality. We illustrate the radiologic diagnostic imaging and therapeutic aspects of this uncommon traumatic injury.

We have studied many adults and children with ATRAA due to blunt trauma to the abdomen and pelvis. Lap belt injury is important causative factor. Children are susceptible to ATRAA, and diagnosis may be delayed because of unawareness of emergency or trauma care personnel. We illustrate the diagnostic imaging and angiographic features. The management consists of surgical repair or IR placement of covered and/or uncovered, self-expandable or balloon expandable stents and/or stent-grafts.

A prompt diagnosis must be made with noninvasive imaging: CTA, MRA, and/or DSA. IR placement of stents and/or stent grafts is successful. Major complications: abdominal or pelvic bleeding, visceral and extremity ischemia, paraplegia, impotence and others are thus prevented or diminished. IR management allows avoidance altogether or postponement of surgery.

ATRAA can be fatal if a prompt diagnosis is not made and therapy is not instituted. Currently, we see this entity with relatively increasing frequency due to impaired and aggressive driving and violent behavior prevalent in inner cities. Awareness of this potentially lethal traumatic injury prompted this scientific exhibit.

• emphasize seriousness of ATRAA, a previously rare entity seen now with increasing frequency • illustrate diagnostic and therapeutic aspects of uncommon and potentially lethal injury

Tisnado, J, Fox, W, Tisnado, J, Sydnor, M, Komorowski, D, Acute Traumatic Rupture of the Abdominal Aorta (ATRTA): Diagnosis and Treatment.  Radiological Society of North America 2011 Scientific Assembly and Annual Meeting, November 26 - December 2, 2011 ,Chicago IL. http://archive.rsna.org/2011/11005893.html