Also known as: Tear in the aorta
Dr. Mateo Fernandez, a cardiothoracic surgeon from Baptist Hospital, presents with acute onset tearing chest pain and differential blood pressures between arms, requiring emergency surgery. His condition drives the episode's central plot as Reynolds must operate while Baptist Hospital loses its trauma center status.
Also known as: Bone cancer
Young patient Tianna's aggressive bone cancer returns, and Dr. Sharpe must help the family navigate the devastating news that there are no clinical trials available and discuss palliative care. The emotional weight of telling a child about their terminal diagnosis forms a significant subplot.
Also known as: Fungal infection from chicken feces
Homeless patient Vance has a dormant fungal infection from Ohio soil that reactivated due to weakened immunity from homelessness, attacking his lungs and liver. He develops a life-threatening arterial bleed requiring emergency intervention, driving Max's storyline about helping vulnerable populations.
Also known as: GBS
Patient who presents with dizziness that Dr. Kapoor eventually diagnoses as Guillain-Barré syndrome, where antibodies from fighting a cold are now attacking the nerves in her feet. The diagnostic challenge provides comedic relief while showcasing thorough medical workup.
Homeless woman with a severely infected foot that Max treats outside the hospital, which leads him to discover her brother Vance's more serious condition. Her case illustrates barriers to healthcare access.
Also known as: Throat cancer
Max undergoes fitting for a radiation mask as part of his ongoing cancer treatment, requiring him to remain completely still during the procedure. This is part of his recurring health arc throughout the season.
Also known as: Bed rest for pregnancy
Max's wife Georgia is on strict bed rest to prevent cervical insufficiency and preterm labor. Her confinement and frustration are shown in the opening scene.
Also known as: Broken ankle
Patient with a lateral malleolus fracture from playing indoor soccer, briefly shown being transported for X-ray in the overcrowded ED.