Computed tomography in aortic diseases

On the basis of 34 personal observations and literature data, the authors debate the possibilities of computed tomography to assess the changes in the anatomy and function of the aorta. It is discussed that compared to aortography, computed tomography furnishes more information on the vascular wall, on paramural thrombi and on the false lumen in dissecting aneurysms, but it is not suitable enough for objectifying of the implication of the aortic branches in the aneurysms. In congenital diseases of major importance is the exact identification of the mediastinal vessels. Computed tomography is the first method used for preoperative assessment of dissecting aneurisms