Young Man with Aortic Dissection Transferred to Prince of Wales Hospital by TKP Medical Escort

A 32-year-old man suffering from a life-threatening aortic dissection was safely transferred from Zhongshan to Hong Kong's Prince of Wales Hospital under continuous arterial blood pressure monitoring and intravenous blood pressure control. TKP Medical Assistance ensured a seamless and stable cross-border transfer.

Aortic Dissection in a Young Hypertensive Patient

Aortic dissection is a critical cardiovascular emergency in which a tear in the inner lining of the aorta allows blood to enter the aortic wall, separating its layers. If left untreated, it has a high fatality rate.

Ah-Kwun, a 32-year-old Hong Kong resident working in Zhongshan, had a history of poorly managed hypertension. After several nights of poor sleep, he developed chest and abdominal pain that rapidly worsened. A CT angiogram revealed extensive intramural hematoma of the thoracoabdominal aorta and multiple dissection flaps. The hospital lacked the capacity for definitive aortic surgery, and his family contacted TKP Medical Assistance for transfer to a specialized center in Hong Kong.

TKP team assessing and transferring the patient onto the ambulance

Advanced In-Transit Monitoring and Blood Pressure Management

Considering the risk of dissection progression toward the ascending aorta—which could cause cardiogenic shock or cerebral ischemia—the TKP medical team formulated a detailed transfer protocol. The plan included advanced monitoring: ECG, direct arterial pressure via radial artery catheterization, continuous IV infusion of nicardipine and metoprolol to control blood pressure and heart rate, and morphine for pain relief.

Upon arrival at the hospital in Zhongshan at 4:00 PM, the TKP team initiated pre-transfer stabilization. The patient was advised to remain still to avoid increased shear stress on the aorta. With careful monitoring, the ambulance departed for Shenzhen Bay Port.

Ambulance switch at Shenzhen Bay Port

Cross-Border Transfer to Specialized Cardiac Care in Hong Kong

At approximately 6:00 PM, the team arrived at Shenzhen Bay Port, completed customs procedures, and transferred the patient to a Hong Kong ambulance. TKP’s physician and nurse continued escorting the patient throughout the journey.

By 7:30 PM, the ambulance reached Prince of Wales Hospital in Hong Kong. The TKP team handed the patient over to the Accident & Emergency Department medical staff. The patient’s family, visibly relieved, praised the team for their professionalism and care.

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