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Updated: Sep 6, 2025

Author Spotlight: Using Point-of-Care Ultrasound for Comprehensive Evaluation of the Abdominal Aorta
Published on: September 8, 2023
The Dean Effect: An Aortic Arch Flow Artifact Mimicking Dissection
Alan Ropp1, Aletta A Frazier1, Bradley Gelfand1
1Department of Diagnostic Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, University of Virginia School of Medicine, 1797 Warbler Way, Charlottesville, VA 22903 (A.R.); Department of Diagnostic Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, University of Maryland School of Medicine (A.A.F., J.J.); and University of Virginia School of Engineering and Applied Science, Charlottesville, Va (B.G.).
Abstract:
The unique hemodynamics of the aortic arch create conditions for potential formation of a flow-related artifact that mimics disease on CT angiographic images. The hemodynamic basis for this artifact can be explained by fluid mechanics incorporating a mathematical principle known as the Dean number. Therefore, in this review, the artifact is referred to as the Dean effect. It is important for radiologists and other clinicians to recognize this artifact when encountered. It is also helpful for the interpreting radiologist to have a basic understanding of the relevant hemodynamic principles. This review provides an example of the artifact, reviews the basic underlying hemodynamics, and presents methods of how to prevent this artifact and distinguish it from pathologic mimics in clinical practice. Keywords: CT Angiography, Vascular, Thorax, Aorta, Artifacts, Blood, Dissection, Hemodynamics/Flow Dynamics © RSNA, 2022.
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