False Aneurysm of the Aorta Following Penetrating Trauma

Abstract

LONG-TERM survival with a false aneurysm of the aorta following penetrating trauma is a unique occurrence. Death from rapid exsanguination or cardiac tamponade is the immediate result in over 80% of stab and missile wounds to the aorta, and there is an additional 30% mortality during the first 24 hours in the group of initial survivors. 1 Only the development of a false aneurysm or arteriovenous fistula permits long-term survivals. The following example of false aortic aneurysm secondary to penetrating trauma was unusual in its development and location, had a long asymptomatic period before development of fatal complications, and emphasizes the need to follow well founded dicta of management. Report of Case A 13-year-old boy was stabbed in the left lumbar region on Feb 14, 1962. The embedded knife blade was 6 inches in length and was easily removed. Upon removal there was brisk bleeding which subsided spontaneously. He did