Thoracic aortic aneurysm CT

Thoracic aortic aneurysm Microchapters
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Patient Information
Overview
Historical Perspective
Classification
Pathophysiology
Causes
Differentiating Thoracic Aortic Aneurysm from other Diseases
Epidemiology and Demographics
Risk Factors
Screening
Natural History, Complications and Prognosis
Diagnosis
Diagnostic Study of Choice
History and Symptoms
Physical Examination
Laboratory Findings
Electrocardiogram
General Approach to Imaging in Thoracic Aortic Aneurysm
Chest X Ray
MRI
CT
Echocardiography
Other Imaging Findings
Other Diagnostic Studies
Treatment
Medical Therapy
Surgery
Primary Prevention
Secondary Prevention
Endovascular Stent Grafting
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Management during Pregnancy
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Case #1
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Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]

Overview

Computed tomography is the most effective method for measuring and monitoring the maximum outer diameter of a thoracic aortic aneurysm over long periods of time.

CT Findings

• CT scans can accurately evaluate the thoracic aorta to determine the location and extent of the aneurysm, and the relationships with the surrounding blood vessels and organs.

Characteristic findings include:

• Increase in aortic diameter
• Shift of calcification on the aortic wall

CT scans can efficiently assess:

• A dissection
• Size of aneurysm
• Mural thrombus
• Intramural hematoma
• A rupture (free and/or contained with a hematoma)

CT Examples

Images shown below are courtesy of RadsWiki and copylefted.

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