Imaging of abdominal aortic aneurysms

Diagnosis of Aortic Aneurysm

“…The lack of overlying bony structures in the lateral projection may allow clearer definition of an aneurysm. However, real-time ultrasonography is the preferred modality for the initial assessment and follow up of abdominal aortic aneurysms because of its portability, easy availability, lack of ionizing radiation, low cost and a sensitivity and specificity approaching 100 percent (LaRoy, Cormier et al 1989)), (Lindholt, Vammen et al 1999). Routine sonographic evaluation of an abdominal aortic aneurysm involves measuring the anteroposterior, longitudinal, and transverse dimensions of the aorta.…”

Magnetic Resonance Imaging of the Thoracic Aorta: A Review of Technical and Clinical Aspects, Including Its Use in the Evaluation of Aneurysms and Acute Vascular Conditions

“…This classification is based fundamentally on prognostic factors: type A dissection necessitates urgent surgical repair, but most type B dissections can be managed conservatively. Hence, accurate recognition with imaging of anatomic details of the dissection is essential for successful management (Cigarroa, 1993) With current technology, MR imaging is the most accurate tool for detection of these features of the dissection (Prince, 1993;LaRoy, 1989;Roberts, 2001;Shiga, 2006). Occasionally MR can also demonstrate "aortic cobwebs", which are fibroelastic bands formed during the dissection process that project from the false lumen wall (Williams, 1994).…”

Definitions, History and General Considerations Related to the Aortic Aneurysms

“…Ruptured aortic aneurysms remain the 13th leading cause of death in the United States with an increasing prevalence (Coady et al, 1999); This may be attributable to improved imaging techniques, increasing mean age of the population, and overall heightened awareness (LaRoy et al, 1989). Due to the age profile of the patients, atherosclerotically damaged vessels in one or several organs increase the risk of complications for surgical treatment of this patients as pulmonary disease, reduced FEV 1, renal, abdominal and cardiovascular complications, which contribute to a significantly increase of morbidity.…”