Early identification of an atypical case of type A dissection by transthoracic echocardiography by the emergency physician

Ascending Thoracic Aortic Dissection: A Case Report of Rapid Detection Via Emergency Echocardiography with Suprasternal Notch Views

“…The SSNV is not routinely included with ETTE; however, it may improve both sensitivity and specificity for AD. 7 As demonstrated in this case, the SSNV allowed the diagnosis of ascending AD to be made rapidly, permitting expedited communication with surgery and mobilization of the operating room resources.…”

“…The reported sensitivity of standard transthoracic echocardiography for the detection of AD ranges between 59%-83%, but is higher for ascending AD. 4,7 An emergency physician focused cardiac ultrasound protocol with particular assessment of dilation of the aortic root has been shown to improve diagnostic accuracy for AD and reduce time to intervention. 6 A standard ED ETTE typically includes subxiphoid, parasternal, and/or apical 4-chamber windows.…”

Adult male with constant pleuritic chest pain

“…CTA is the imaging modality of choice in hemodynamically stable patients due to rapidity and accuracy 2,3 . POCUS can also be a useful and specific diagnostic adjunct, since the suprasternal view can rapidly visualize a dissection flap and allow for expedited management 4,5 …”

“…2 , 3 POCUS can also be a useful and specific diagnostic adjunct, since the suprasternal view can rapidly visualize a dissection flap and allow for expedited management. 4 , 5 …”