title: The Acute Abdominal Aorta.
abstract: Acute disorders of the abdominal aorta are potentially lethal conditions that require prompt evaluation and treatment. Computed tomography (CT) is the primary imaging method for evaluating these conditions because of its availability and speed. Volumetric CT acquisition with multiplanar reconstruction and three-dimensional analysis is now the standard technique for evaluating the aorta. MR imaging may be useful for select applications in stable patients in whom rupture has been excluded. Imaging is indispensable for diagnosis and treatment planning, because management has shifted toward endoluminal repair. Acute abdominal aortic conditions most commonly are complications of aneurysms and atherosclerosis.
authors.affiliation: Mallinckrodt Institute of Radiology, Washington University School of Medicine, 510 South Kingshighway Boulevard, St Louis, MO 63110, USA. Electronic address: mellnickv@mir.wustl.edu.
authors.forename: Vincent M
authors.initials: VM
authors.lastname: Mellnick
authors.affiliation: Mallinckrodt Institute of Radiology, Washington University School of Medicine, 510 South Kingshighway Boulevard, St Louis, MO 63110, USA.
authors.forename: Jay P
authors.initials: JP
authors.lastname: Heiken
mesh_terms: D001012:Aorta, Abdominal / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000473:pathology; D001018:Aortic Diseases / Q000175:diagnosis*; D001019:Aortic Rupture / Q000175:diagnosis*; D006801:Humans; D008279:Magnetic Resonance Imaging; D014057:Tomography, X-Ray Computed
keywords: Aneurysm; Aorta; Aortitis; Aortoenteric fistula; Penetrating atherosclerotic ulcer; Rupture; Thrombosis