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Blunt thoracic aortic injury — RCPSC EM MCQ

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HardTraumaBlunt thoracic aortic injuryRCPSC EM

CTAS 2: A 40-year-old is decelerated in a high-speed MVC. Vitals are BP 106/68, HR 116. Chest x-ray shows widened mediastinum and left apical cap; femoral pulses are present. FAST is negative and creatinine is normal. What is the most appropriate investigation?

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Correct answer: E — CT angiography of the chest

High-energy deceleration with mediastinal widening requires CTA chest to assess for blunt thoracic aortic injury once the patient is sufficiently stable.

Reference: ATLS; Canadian trauma imaging practice