Silent Aortic Dissection after the Heimlich Maneuver: A Case Report

Publication date: Available online 9 November 2018

Source: The Journal of Emergency Medicine

Author(s): Kun-Yu Lee, Yi-Liang Wu, Sai-Wai Ho

Abstract

Background

The Heimlich maneuver is a simple and universal resuscitative procedure that is performed to relieve foreign-body airway obstruction. We present a case of silent Stanford type A aortic dissection, a rarely reported complication of the Heimlich maneuver.

Case Report

A 67-year-old male presented to the emergency department with left-sided hemiplegia shortly after receiving a Heimlich maneuver. Acute ischemic stroke was suspected, and the thrombolytic protocol was initiated. Fortunately, Stanford type A aortic dissection was diagnosed before the thrombolytic therapy was initiated.

Why Should an Emergency Physician Be Aware of This?

Aortic dissection can develop after the Heimlich maneuver. For patients who develop a neurologic deficit after the Heimlich maneuver, vascular dissection should be considered as a possible cause.

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