[CT and PRI angiographic findings in dissection of the neck arteries]

To determine the usefulness of CT angiography (CTA) and MR angiography (MRA) for evaluation of dissection in cervical vessels.

Dissection of cervical vessels was revealed by conventional angiography in 4 patients (two female, two male) of 30-62 years of age. Dissection was located in the carotid artery (n = 3) and in the vertebral artery (n = 1). In two patients CTA and in two patients MRA was performed.

Diagnosis of dissection was possible by CTA (internal carotid artery: n = 2) and by MRA (internal carotid artery and vertebral artery). Imaging of the dissection membrane of the vessel wall was possible in one case with MRA.

CT and MR angiography was successful for detection of typical morphology of dissection in all cases. If results in a greater number can be obtained it seems to be conceivable that both methods can be used in primary diagnosis.