Sonographic features of carotid artery dissection due to extension of aortic dissection: a case report

BACKGROUND: Carotid artery dissection due to extension of aortic dissection (CAEAD) is a severe complication of acute aortic dissection. The risk of ischemic stroke is increased. Early sonographic detection and repeat evaluation are necessary to guide clinical management. CASE PRESENTATION: A 58-year-old male patient presents with sudden, tearing retrosternal pain. Point-of-care carotid ultrasound is used to establish the diagnosis of CAEAD. We describe a number of sonographic features and compare ultrasound to other imaging modalities. CONCLUSIONS: Bedside carotid ultrasound enables rapid, sensitive and safe hemodynamic assessment, especially in critically ill patients.