Computed Tomography Angiography of Thoracic Aortic Aneurysms

Thoracic aortic aneurysms (TAAs) can be life-threatening but often remain undiagnosed until a complication occurs or the disease is discovered incidentally on imaging studies performed for other purposes. Multidetector-row computed tomography angiography has emerged as a useful modality for aortic imaging and allows a comprehensive evaluation of TAAs in terms of their morphology, extent, amount of thrombus, relationship to adjacent structures, and signs of acute or impending rupture. This article reviews the normal anatomy of the thoracic aorta, etiology of TAAs, and the spectrum of their imaging appearance. Technical considerations for performing and interpreting multidetector-row computed tomography angiography of the thoracic aorta will be presented along with the role this modality plays in identifying the various complications associated with TAAs.