Preventing death after traumatic rupture of the aorta

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Blunt trauma of the chest, often the result of an automobile accident, may cause rupture of the aorta, with immediate death in most cases. However, persons who survive the initial event have a chance for survival if the rupture is discovered and repaired promptly. Radiographic evaluation is important because findings on a chest film may be the only indicators of aortic injury. In this article, Dr Montgomery discusses the most common signs of traumatic aortic rupture.