Thoracic aorta rupture as the cause of paraplegia: a diagnostic dilemma (case report).

An unusual case of traumatic aortic transection in an 8-year-old boy: the child presented with paraplegia after being struck by an automobile and thrown into a telephone pole. No bony abnormalities were noted on radiologic examination. The case emphasizes the importance of a high risk index of suspicion and the mechanism of injury.