Periaortic hematoma on abdominal computed tomographic scanning as an indicator of thoracic aortic rupture in blunt trauma.

Background: In our institution, we have noted an association between periaortic hematomas (PH) present on abdominal computed tomographic (CT) scans and patients with thoracic aortic rupture (TAR) in blunt trauma. This 5-year retrospective study determined the sensitivity and specificity of PH and left hemothorax seen on abdominal CT scan as an indicator of TAR.

Methods: The trauma registry and records identified 54 blunt trauma patients who had a CT scan of the abdomen and an arch aortogram.