Emergent Regional Aortic Program

MADISON - In our Spring 2008 issue of Medical Directions, we discussed the critical need for correctly diagnosing aortic dissections and aneurysms especially since the symptoms can be similar to a heart attack.

Early recognition of aortic disease and expedited surgical or medical therapy is critical to better outcomes.

To assist emergency physicians and improve outcomes of these conditions, UW Health vascular surgeons have designed a quick, efficient communication channel to connect with vascular surgeons at UW Hospital and Clinics.

A standardized treatment algorithm for aortic dissections and guidelines for management of ruptured aortic aneurysms are also available. Vascular surgeons are meeting with emergency physicians and medical directors in southcentral Wisconsin with a goal of expediting appropriate treatment and improving outcomes for patients.

You can access the triage/communications charts at uwhealth.org/aorticemergency as well as a form to record patient medications and treatment before transporting to UW Hospital.

If you have questions regarding the flow charts or report form, contact Dr. Girma Tefera, vascular surgeon, at tefera@surgery.wisc.edu or (608) 265-4420.