iPhone ultrasound saves woman from life-threatening heart condition: Here’s what happened

A breakthrough in medical technology played a crucial role in saving the life of hospital analyst Sara Adair, who suffered a sudden and life-threatening aortic dissection. The device in question was an iPhone ultrasound probe, which enabled doctors to make a rapid and accurate diagnosis in a critical moment, reported CBS News.

Adair, a mother of two, was no stranger to the risks associated with aortic dissection. Both her father and sister had survived the dangerous cardiac condition, which occurs when the inner lining of the aorta tears. Diagnosed with Loeys-Dietz syndrome—a rare genetic disorder affecting connective tissues—she remained vigilant with regular cardiac check-ups. However, despite undergoing routine imaging, no warning signs were detected.

On 22 July 2024, after a seemingly normal day filled with sports tournaments and family activities, Adair suddenly experienced a severe, crushing pain in her chest, the publication stated. The pain then radiated up to her neck—an alarming indicator of aortic dissection. Recognising the symptoms, she attempted to alert her husband but collapsed before she could do so.

According to the report, emergency responders rushed Adair to Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital, where paramedics initially suspected a heart attack. This common misdiagnosis can be fatal, as treatments for a heart attack differ significantly from those required for an aortic dissection. Without immediate surgery, survival chances decline by 1-2 per cent for every hour of delay.

Fortunately, in the emergency department, cardiology fellow Dr Shawn Chawla utilised a pioneering iPhone-based ultrasound device. This handheld probe, which connects directly to a smartphone, provided real-time imaging that revealed the large tear in Adair’s aorta. This swift identification led to further diagnostic scans, confirming the aortic dissection and expediting her urgent open-heart surgery.

Dr Partho P. Sengupta, chief of cardiology at the hospital, emphasised the critical role of the portable ultrasound in Adair’s survival. “Over half of all patients with aortic dissections never reach the hospital in time. Quick diagnosis is paramount.

Reportedly, the iPhone ultrasound made it possible to detect the condition within minutes and direct Sara to the right treatment immediately,” he stated.

Adair underwent an extensive surgical procedure performed by cardiac surgeon Dr Hirohisa Ikegami. Though she experienced complications, including a stroke during surgery and fluid build-up around her heart and lungs, she has since been recovering through cardiac rehabilitation.

Reflecting on her ordeal, Adair acknowledges the role of cutting-edge medical technology in saving her life. “I know it was the ultrasound in the emergency room that saved me. If I had been treated for a heart attack instead, I might not have made it.”

Now, as she continues her recovery, Adair’s focus has shifted towards her children, who are scheduled for genetic testing for Loeys-Dietz syndrome.