[Value of computed tomography for the investigation and diagnosis of aortic aneurysms (author's transl)]

Abdominal or thoracic aneurysms can be perfectly well visualized by computed tomography, and tumors lying close to the aorta and simulating ectasia can often be eliminated. The exact topographical features of the lesions can be defined as well as their extension superiorly. In many cases, calcifications, clots, a permeable channel, or even a periaortic hematoma showing fissuration can be demonstrated. On many occasions the value of computed tomography is such that angiography may not be necessary.