Clinical Experience: Timely Diagnosis of Type A Aortic Dissection Using Point-of-Care Ultrasound Performed by Emergency Medicine Residents in a High-Complexity Center in Latin America

Abstract

This case report describes the timely diagnosis of a Stanford type A aortic dissection using point-of-care echocardiography (POCUS) performed by emergency medicine residents in a high-complexity center in Latin America. A 57-year-old man presented in shock with acute chest pain. POCUS performed in the resuscitation room immediately identified both
direct and indirect signs of the condition, enabling prompt emergency assessment and optimal management. This case is unique in documenting a successful diagnostic workflow led by residents in a regional context where this training is not yet standard practice, demonstrating that a structured POCUS training program can overcome barriers to access to advanced imaging modalities. We conclude that POCUS is a key diagnostic tool to shorten time-to-diagnosis and improve outcomes in acute aortic syndromes, representing a replicable model for centers operating in settings with variable resources.
Keywords: Point-of-care ultrasound; aortic dissection; diagnosis; cardiovascular care; case report