Also known as: Tear in the aorta
This is the central medical case of the episode, explored through the 'butterfly effect' concept. In one timeline, the dissection is caught late and the patient dies (90% mortality rate). In the alternate timeline, JD catches it early via CT scan and the patient survives surgery, demonstrating how minor events can change outcomes.
Also known as: Intestinal tissue death from lack of blood flow
Initially considered as a diagnosis for Mr. Strauss in the alternate timeline, presenting with vomiting and abdominal pain. This consideration leads JD to order the CT scan that ultimately catches the aortic dissection early.
Also known as: GI bleed
One of the differential diagnoses considered for Mr. Strauss when he presents with nausea and stomach pains after eating gas station sushi. JD suggests this while Dr. Cox considers angina.
Also known as: Chest pain from heart disease
Dr. Cox's initial differential diagnosis for Mr. Strauss's symptoms, contrasting with JD's suggestion of GI bleed. This is part of the teaching moment about collaborative medicine.