Related Experiment Video
Updated: Nov 6, 2025
08:50
Technique and Patient Selection Criteria of Right Anterior Mini-Thoracotomy for Minimal Access Aortic Valve Replacement
Published on: March 26, 2018
11.9K
ACR Appropriateness Criteria® Nontraumatic Aortic Disease
, Andrew J Gunn1, Sanjeeva P Kalva2
1University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, Director, Interventional Oncology, Director, Ambulatory Clinic, Assistant Program Director, Diagnostic Radiology Residency, Assistant Program Director, Interventional Radiology Residency, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Member, American College of Radiology-Radiologic Society of North America Patient Information Committee.
Summary
Selecting the right imaging test for nontraumatic aortic disease is crucial. The American College of Radiology Appropriateness Criteria offer evidence-based guidance for optimal diagnostic imaging selection.
Area of Science:
- Radiology and Medical Imaging
- Cardiovascular Diseases
Background:
- Nontraumatic aortic diseases encompass diverse etiologies, including congenital, inflammatory, infectious, metabolic, neoplastic, and degenerative conditions.
- Accurate diagnosis, treatment planning, and therapeutic response assessment rely heavily on various imaging modalities like radiography, ultrasound, echocardiography, CT, MRI, and nuclear medicine.
Framework:
- The American College of Radiology (ACR) Appropriateness Criteria provide evidence-based guidelines for selecting diagnostic imaging examinations.
- These guidelines are developed and annually reviewed by multidisciplinary expert panels, incorporating extensive medical literature analysis.
- Methodologies such as RAND/UCLA Appropriateness Method and Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation (GRADE) are used to rate procedure appropriateness.
Implementation:
- The ACR criteria aim to guide physicians in choosing the most suitable diagnostic imaging examination for nontraumatic aortic diseases.
- Selection of imaging modalities should be based on the best available evidence, considering the strengths and weaknesses of each in specific clinical scenarios.
- Expert opinion may supplement evidence when data is lacking or equivocal to recommend appropriate imaging or treatment.
Implications:
- Facilitates informed decision-making for physicians in diagnosing and managing nontraumatic aortic diseases.
- Promotes the use of evidence-based practices in medical imaging for aortic conditions.
- Aims to optimize patient care by ensuring the selection of the most appropriate diagnostic imaging examinations.
Related Concept Videos
01:15Aortic Regurgitation I: Introduction
139
IntroductionAortic regurgitation is characterized by the backward flow of blood from the aorta into the left ventricle during diastole and arises from the improper closure of the aortic valve. This condition results in left ventricular volume overload and can stem from both acute and chronic etiologies, each contributing uniquely to the disease's progression and symptomatology.Acute and Chronic CausesAcute aortic regurgitation often results from events that suddenly impair the integrity of the...
139
01:22Aortic Regurgitation II: Clinical Features and Diagnostic Tests
152
Aortic valve regurgitation (AR) occurs when the aortic valve fails to close properly, allowing blood to flow backward from the aorta into the left ventricle. This backflow can result in two distinct clinical presentations: acute and chronic AR, each characterized by its own set of symptoms and physical findings.Acute Aortic RegurgitationAcute AR presents with a sudden onset of severe symptoms. Patients typically experience profound dyspnea (shortness of breath), chest pain, and signs of left...
152
01:21Aneurysm II: Clinical Manifestations and Diagnostic Studies
64
Thoracic, aortic arch and abdominal aneurysms are significant vascular conditions that can present with various clinical manifestations and lead to serious complications. Understanding these manifestations and the appropriate diagnostic studies is essential for effective management and treatment.Thoracic Aortic AneurysmsThoracic aortic aneurysms often remain asymptomatic until they reach a size that impinges on adjacent structures. They typically cause deep, diffuse chest pain that radiates to...
64
01:26Aneurysm III: Interprofessional Care
80
Aneurysm management involves either conservative medical therapy or surgical intervention, depending on the size and symptoms of the aneurysm. Conservative management is generally reserved for smaller, asymptomatic aneurysms, while larger or symptomatic aneurysms often necessitate surgical repair.Conservative Medical TherapyFor small, asymptomatic aneurysms, particularly abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAA) less than 5.5 centimeters in diameter, conservative medical therapy is recommended. This...
80
01:25Aortic Regurgitation III: Medical Management
117
Aortic regurgitation (AR) is when the aortic valve does not close or seal properly, leading to backward blood circulation from the aorta into the left ventricle during diastole. Common causes of AR include rheumatic heart disease, congenital valve defects, and aortic root dilation. Managing AR requires a multifaceted approach to alleviate symptoms, preserve left ventricular function, and address the underlying cause of the regurgitation. Patients with symptomatic AR or significant left...
117
01:17Aortic Regurgitation IV: Nursing Management
111
A nurse managing a patient with aortic regurgitation begins with a comprehensive assessment, including a review of the patient's medical history, family history, and lifestyle factors. During the cardiac examination, the nurse listens for heart sounds and checks for signs of valve abnormalities. The nurse also observes for symptoms such as dyspnea, orthopnea, and paroxysmal nocturnal dyspnea and assesses the patient's endurance and daily activity tolerance.Based on the findings, the nurse...
111