Traumatic aneurysm of the ascending aorta in a child.

A case of traumatic aneurysm of the ascending aorta in a child is reported. This complication must be suspected in a child who sustains severe injury from closed thoracic trauma and develops an abnormally wide anterior mediastinum. A mechanism for ascending aortic rupture and aneurysm is proposed. Aortography is essential when aortic injury and its complications are suspected.