skip to main content

Ruptured abdominal aortic aneurysm — ABEM Board MCQ

Instant feedback + full explanation. One question, done properly.

HardCardiovascular emergenciesRuptured abdominal aortic aneurysmABEM Board

A 61-year-old man arrives as ESI 2 with sudden tearing abdominal and back pain. BP 76/42, HR 132, abdomen is tender with a pulsatile mass, and he is too unstable for transport. Which of the following is the most appropriate imaging study?

Educational content. Not a substitute for clinical judgement or local policy.

Reveal the answer and explanation

Correct answer: C — Bedside abdominal aortic ultrasound

In unstable suspected ruptured AAA, bedside ultrasound is the rapid imaging test; definitive operative management should not wait for CT.

Reference: SVS abdominal aortic aneurysm guideline; ATLS 10th edition