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Ultrasound Imaging of the Thoracic and Abdominal Aorta in Mice to Determine Aneurysm Dimensions
Published on: March 8, 2019
MRI of the thoracic aorta
Christopher J François1, James C Carr
1Department of Radiology, Northwestern University Medical School and Northwestern Memorial Hospital, 676 St. Clair Street, Suite 800, Chicago, IL 60611, USA.
Cardiology Clinics
|May 5, 2007
Summary
Thoracic aortic diseases pose serious health risks. While digital subtraction angiography (DSA) was standard, advanced imaging like CT and MRI offer better insights into vessel morphology for diagnosing these critical conditions.
Area of Science:
- Cardiovascular Imaging
- Thoracic Surgery
- Diagnostic Radiology
Background:
- Diseases of the thoracic aorta lead to significant morbidity and mortality.
- Conventional digital subtraction angiography (DSA) has limitations in providing detailed vessel morphology and carries adverse effects.
- DSA is often a first-line imaging choice, particularly in trauma cases.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review and focus on advanced imaging techniques for thoracic aorta diseases.
- To highlight the advantages of CT and MRI over conventional DSA.
- To provide an overview of current imaging modalities for thoracic aortic pathology.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature on thoracic aorta imaging.
- Focus on Computed Tomography (CT) and Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) techniques.
- Comparison of DSA, CT, and MRI in evaluating thoracic aortic diseases.
Main Results:
- DSA, while established, has limitations in morphological detail and potential adverse effects.
- CT and MRI provide superior visualization of thoracic aorta anatomy and pathology.
- These advanced techniques offer comprehensive data for diagnosis and treatment planning.
Conclusions:
- CT and MRI are increasingly important for diagnosing thoracic aorta diseases.
- Advanced imaging modalities offer significant advantages over conventional DSA.
- The focus is shifting towards non-invasive or less invasive imaging for better patient outcomes.
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