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Published on: March 8, 2019
Aortic valve and ascending thoracic aorta: Evaluation with isotropic MDCT
Pamela T Johnson1, Karen M Horton, Elliot K Fishman
1The Russell H. Morgan Department of Radiology and Radiological Science, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21287, USA. pjohnso5@jhmi.edu
Insights
This review highlights how multi-detector row CT angiography (MDCT) with 64- and 128-slice scanners visualizes abnormalities of the aortic valve and ascending aorta. Advanced 2D and 3D imaging are crucial for accurate diagnosis.
Area of Science:
- Cardiovascular imaging
- Thoracic radiology
- Medical diagnostics
Background:
- Aortic valve and ascending aorta pathologies require precise imaging for effective management.
- Multi-detector row CT angiography (MDCT) has advanced diagnostic capabilities in cardiovascular imaging.
Purpose of the Study:
- To demonstrate the spectrum of abnormalities affecting the aortic valve and ascending thoracic aorta.
- To evaluate the utility of 64- and 128-MDCT with 2D and 3D CT angiography for visualizing these structures.
Main Methods:
- Utilized 64- and 128-MDCT scanners for CT angiography.
- Employed both 2D and 3D reconstruction techniques for image analysis.
- Focused on interactive interrogation of high-quality isotropic volumes.
Main Results:
- MDCT effectively visualizes a wide range of abnormalities in the aortic valve and ascending aorta.
- 3D rendering provides comprehensive anatomical detail.
- Associated diseases involving coronary arteries and heart can also be identified.
Conclusions:
- Ascending aorta abnormalities can present with complex secondary involvement or associated cardiac conditions.
- High-quality isotropic volume datasets and advanced 2D/3D rendering are essential for accurate interpretation and optimal patient care.
Objective:
The purpose of this review is to show the range of abnormality involving the aortic valve and ascending thoracic aorta using 64- and 128-MDCT with 2D and 3D CT angiography.
Conclusion:
Ascending aorta abnormality can be complicated by secondary involvement or associated disease involving the aortic valve, coronary arteries, and heart. Interactive interrogation of high-quality isotropic volumes, with both 2D and 3D rendering tools, is essential to identify the full array of findings for best interpretative performance.
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