Case: Size not all that matters
57 year old female smoker presents to the quick track area with chronic back pain, progressive for two years, especially since helping a friend move 6 months prior. Abdominal, back and neurologic exams unremarkable. "Teaching" US performed.
Click for Video57 year old female smoker presents to the quick track area with chronic back pain, progressive for two years, especially since helping a friend move 6 months prior. Abdominal, back and neurologic exams unremarkable. "Teaching" US performed.
Next Step?
What to Know
- List indications, contraindications, and limitations of CUS for the evaluation of abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAA) and other aortic emergencies.
- Perform the CUS protocols required.
- Identify clinically relevant sonographic anatomy including the aorta with major branches, inferior vena cava, and vertebral bodies.
- Recognize the relevant focused findings and pitfalls when evaluating for AAA and Aortic dissection.
- Describe different types of aneurysms.
- 57 year old female present to the quick track area with chronic back pain, progressive times two years, worse for 6 months after helping a friend move. Abdominal, back and neurologic exams unremarkable. Teaching US performed. accurate measurement of an AAA.
What to Read: Introduction to Bedside Ultrasound
Where to Learn More
ACEP US Section Resources
Emergency Ultrasound by Geoff Hayden
Aorta Lecture
Chapter 3: Aorta
Where to Learn More
ACEP US Section Resources
Aorta Narrated Lecture by Arthur Au
Emergency Ultrasound by Geoff Hayden
Aorta Lecture
Key Articles
- Consensus. ACEP Emergency ultrasound guidelines. Ann Emerg Med. 2009;53(4):550–570.
- Tayal VS, Graf CD, Gibbs M a. Prospective study of accuracy and outcome of emergency ultrasound for abdominal aortic aneurysm over two years. Acad Emerg Med. 2003;10(8):867–71.
- Hoffmann B, Um P, Bessman ES, Ding R, Kelen GD, McCarthy ML. Routine screening for asymptomatic abdominal aortic aneurysm in high-risk patients is not recommended in emergency departments that are frequently crowded. Acad Emerg Med Off J Soc Acad Emerg Med. 2009;16(11):1242–1250.
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