AORTA-Q(p) will be the first study to explore patients’ acceptability of using a clinical decision tool and D-dimer as a diagnostic strategy to aid decision making when deciding whether to proceed to definitive imaging with CT Aortography if acute aortic syndrome (AAS) is considered in UK emergency departments. We will recruit 15–20 patients presenting to the Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh with undifferentiated chest, back or abdominal pain, collapse or weakness to explore the acceptability of risk and testing thresholds relating to the investigation and diagnosis of AAS. Unlike previous studies focusing on survivors of aortic dissection, this study specifically targets patients before definitive diagnostic decisions have been made. Using semi-structured interviews, the study aims to explore how patients perceive diagnostic uncertainty, the balance between harms of CT scanning and risks of missed diagnosis, and what levels of risk they consider acceptable. Using semi-structured interviews, we hope to better understand patient priorities, preferences and expectations regarding testing. These findings are intended to ensure that any future diagnostic pathway is acceptable not only to clinicians and healthcare systems, but also to patients themselves.

Study protocol [link coming soon]
Patient Information Sheet (PIS) [link coming soon]
Short version PIS [link coming soon]
Data Management Plan [link coming soon]

Pending Grant Funding