Presentation
MVA rollover at 100km/hr - complaining of chest and back pain.
Patient Data
Age: 20 years
Gender: Male
From the case:
Ductus diverticulum
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Focal bulge at the anteromedial aspect of the aorta has smooth contours and along with the absence of mediastinal hematoma is in keeping with a ductus diverticulum. Air embolus noted within the pulmonary trunk. No pleural fluid collection. No rib, sternal or scapula fractures are seen.
Case Discussion
A ductus diverticulum is a normal variant representing a developmental outpouching of the thoracic aorta. It is a key differential diagnosis for thoracic aorta traumatic injuries (e.g. pseudoaneurysm), which commonly occur at the same location.