Emergency Bedside Ultrasound Diagnosis of Aortic Dissection in a Young Patient with Biliary Colic

ABSTRACT

Background: Aortic dissection is a potentially fatal condition that primarily affects the older population. Rapid diagnosis of dissection is crucial for a favorable outcome and the only effective strategy to improve outcome is high clinical suspicion and prompt treatment.

Objective: We present a case that demonstrates a timely diagnosis of a serious and life-threatening condition by an emergency bedside ultrasound (EBU).

Case Report: We report a case of a 36-year-old male with prior history of cholelithiasis and frequent ED visits for biliary colic that presented with abdominal pain. An emergency bedside ultrasound showed gallstones and an aortic dissection in the abdominal aorta. Emergent surgical consultation was obtained based on the ultrasound finding, and subsequently followed with confirmatory imaging and surgical intervention.

Conclusion: This case report highlights the utility of emergency bedside ultrasound, which made a timely diagnosis and saved a life.