Non-invasive imaging of the great vessels of the chest

Several excellent imaging modalities are available for studying the great vessels of the chest noninvasively. Besides computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and echocardiography (in particular the transesophageal approach) can accurately depict abnormalities of the thoracic vasculature, and are a valuable substitute for contrast angiography in most circumstances. The aim of this paper is to provide a comprehensive review of the current contribution of CT and MRI to the diagnosis of great vessel pathology of the chest. (orig.)