Abstract
Acute aortic occlusions (AAOs) are rare vascular emergencies associated with high morbidity and mortality. Presenting signs and symptoms vary but typically involve the lower extremities and include mottled skin with diminished pedal pulses, paresis, and severe pain. Prompt recognition and imaging are necessary to prevent rapid deterioration, which can lead to loss of limb or death. Treatment includes surgical or endovascular interventions based on patient-associated risk factors and clot location. We present a 76-year-old female who arrived at the emergency department with an AAO involving the infrarenal abdominal aorta and bilateral common iliac arteries. Efficient physical examination and utilization of computed tomography with angiography of the abdomen and pelvis allowed for the appropriate recognition of the AAO and subsequent successful surgical embolectomy. This case report underscores the importance of an expeditious clinical and radiographic evaluation in patients presenting with lower extremity pain and weakness.