[Acute post-trauma dissection of the descending thoracic aorta]

Abstract

Background: Traumatic injury to the descending thoracic aorta other than the isthmus is rare, and little known. Acute post-trauma rupture may occur in a context of multiple or rarely unique localizations.

Case report: We report the case of a young man who was the victim of multiple injuries with an isolated rupture of the descending thoracic aorta. Early diagnosis and adapted endovascular treatment led to favorable outcome.

Conclusion: In 90% of cases, acute post-trauma rupture of the aorta in a single localization involve the isthmus. Rupture of the descending aorta is more exceptional but must not be missed. The pathophysiological mechanism and appropriate management are discussed in light of a review of the literature.

Keywords: Aorte descendante; Descending aorta; Dissection; Trauma; Traumatisme.