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Preoperative evaluation of abdominal aortic aneurysms by computed tomography
AJR. American Journal of Roentgenology
|April 1, 1986
Summary
Computed tomography (CT) is not accurate enough to replace angiography for preoperative abdominal aortic aneurysm assessment. Angiography remains superior for detailing renal artery anatomy crucial for surgical planning.
Area of Science:
- Vascular Surgery
- Radiology
- Medical Imaging
Background:
- Abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAAs) require precise preoperative assessment.
- Accurate imaging is vital for surgical planning, particularly regarding renal artery involvement.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare the accuracy of computed tomography (CT) and angiography in preoperative AAA assessment.
- To evaluate the utility of CT in documenting renal and iliac artery anatomy compared to surgical findings.
Main Methods:
- Prospective study of 50 patients undergoing elective AAA repair.
- Comparison of preoperative CT and angiography findings with intraoperative surgical descriptions.
Main Results:
- CT identified all aneurysms but had lower accuracy for renal artery origin (94%) versus angiography (100%).
- Angiography showed superior accuracy in identifying renal artery variations (two, three, or four arteries).
- CT demonstrated moderate accuracy in predicting common iliac artery involvement (84%).
Conclusions:
- CT is insufficient for routine preoperative assessment of AAAs due to limitations in documenting renal artery location and patency.
- Angiography remains the gold standard for detailed preoperative evaluation of abdominal aortic aneurysms.