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Role of Computed Tomography in Assessment of the Thoracic Aorta

Nandini M Meyersohn1, Khristine Ghemigian, Michael D Shapiro

  • 1Department of Radiology, Cardiac MR PET CT Program, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, 55 Fruit St, Boston, MA, 02114, USA.

Current Treatment Options in Cardiovascular Medicine
|June 21, 2015
PubMed

Insights

Computed tomography (CT) angiography is a vital tool for diagnosing and monitoring thoracic aortic diseases, offering detailed imaging for acute conditions and post-treatment surveillance. Advances in CT technology minimize risks associated with radiation and contrast media.

Area of Science:

  • Cardiovascular Imaging
  • Radiology
  • Thoracic Pathology

Background:

  • Thoracic aortic disease prevalence is rising, leading to significant morbidity and mortality.
  • Accurate imaging is crucial for timely diagnosis and management of thoracic aortic conditions.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To highlight the role of computed tomography (CT) angiography in assessing thoracic aortic pathology.
  • To discuss the advantages and applications of CT angiography in acute and chronic thoracic aortic diseases.
  • To review the benefits of ECG-gated CT angiography for cardiac structure evaluation.

Main Methods:

  • Computed tomography (CT) angiography is utilized for its availability, speed, and high-resolution imaging.
  • 3D image post-processing capabilities enhance visualization of aortic pathology.
  • Electrocardiogram (ECG)-gated CT angiography is employed for artifact-free cardiac imaging.

Main Results:

  • CT angiography is the preferred modality for acute aortic syndromes like dissection and intramural hematoma.
  • It is essential for post-procedural surveillance of thoracic aortic repairs.
  • CT effectively characterizes incidental findings such as aneurysms and congenital anomalies.

Conclusions:

  • CT angiography is indispensable for diagnosing and managing a wide spectrum of thoracic aortic diseases.
  • Ongoing advancements in CT technology mitigate risks, making it a safe and effective imaging choice.
  • ECG-gated CT angiography provides comprehensive assessment of the aorta and cardiac structures.
Abstract

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