[A computed tomographic study of aneurysms of the sinus of Valsalva]

Computed tomography (CT) was performed for four patients with aneurysms of the sinus of Valsalva (each of the Konno types IVSD and IV, false aneurysm projecting into the interatrial septum, and annulo-aortic ectasia). Aneurysms were detected in three cases, and the sizes closely correlated with those of the resected specimens. However, a relatively small and mobile aneurysm of the IV type was not detected. Apparently, relatively large size (more than 10-20 mm) and immobility were necessary for the detection by CT. Reconstruction of CT images facilitated localization of the aneurysm and determining the extent of annulo-aortic ectasia. Rupture of an aneurysm was identified by observing the time course of CT values in the cardiac chambers using dynamic CT. However, better time resolution of CT is necessary for more precise diagnosis. Two-dimensional echocardiography is more convenient and diagnostically effective than CT. However, CT is a useful and non-invasive examination which overcomes the technical difficulties inherent in echocardiography, such as disturbances by the lung and other artifacts.