Evaluation of a possible aortic rupture requires a rapid history and physical examination.

Physical findings in those with an aortic rupture may include:

• A harsh sounding (systolic ejection) heart murmur
• Chest wall contusions
• Decreased lung sounds
• Different blood pressure between the arms and legs
• Elevated blood pressure in one arm
• Low blood pressure
• Paralysis
• Rib fractures evident by a crunching noise or air in the soft tissues

Tests are necessary to make the diagnosis of an aortic rupture.

Tests that may be used to evaluate an aortic rupture include:

• Chest x-ray
• Complete blood count
• Kidney profile
• Liver profile
• Chest x-ray
• CT scanning of the chest
• Chest MRI
• Angiography