# Multimodal Management of a Descending Aorta Injury with Penetrating Chest Trauma: A Case Report

## TL;DR

This case report describes the treatment of a rare gunshot wound causing a descending aorta injury, using a combination of endovascular and surgical approaches.

## Contribution

The paper presents a unique case of aortic injury from a gunshot wound and emphasizes the importance of a multidisciplinary treatment strategy.

## Key findings

- A 47-year-old male survived a rare gunshot-induced descending aorta injury through combined TEVAR and surgical intervention.
- The case highlights the need for interdisciplinary collaboration in managing complex cardiothoracic trauma.
- Sequential use of TEVAR followed by surgery improved outcomes in this life-threatening injury.

## Abstract

A penetrating thoracic aorta injury (PTAI) is a life-threatening condition with significant morbidity and mortality, often resulting from several traumatic mechanisms. Among these, gunshot wounds leading to aortic injury are exceedingly rare and pose unique challenges in terms of diagnosis, management, and surgical intervention. We present a case of a 47-year-old male victim of a gunshot wound resulting in penetrating chest trauma and a descending thoracic aorta injury. This report outlines the sequential management involving thoracic endovascular aortic repair (TEVAR), followed by surgical intervention for hematoma drainage and foreign body removal, highlighting the interdisciplinary approach required in managing complex cardiothoracic injuries.