A rare case of fatal delayed aortic rupture caused by repeated microtrauma from a posterior rib fracture.
Shintaro Isa, Homare Kaga, Ryohei Kuroda et al.
✦ AI-curated · Sources linked
Case in brief
A patient with a posterior 8th rib fracture initially presented as hemodynamically stable after a fall. Despite conservative management, the patient collapsed on day 10 of hospitalization and died. Autopsy revealed a full-thickness perforation of the descending thoracic aorta caused by the rib fragment. Retrospective imaging showed the rib was in close proximity to the aorta, indicating a delayed aortic rupture due to the fracture.
What made this case unusual
The case highlights a fatal delayed aortic rupture resulting from a rib fracture, which was initially overlooked despite the rib's proximity to the aorta on imaging.
Diagnostic / clinical pearl
Clinicians should be vigilant in monitoring patients with posterior rib fractures for potential delayed vascular injuries, as these can lead to life-threatening complications.
Why it matters
This case underscores the need for careful evaluation of rib fractures, particularly in the context of potential aortic injury, which may necessitate surgical intervention.