ABSTRACT

Magnetic resonance can assess the anatomy of the aorta in three dimensions using nonenhanced spinecho and turbo-spin-echo sequences that can be used to diagnose aortic aneurysms or coarctation, and can detect an intimal flap in aortic dissections. However; to obtain angiographic projection images of the aorta and branches; it is necessary to use contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance angiography (MRA). Abdominal aortic aneurysms

can be diagnosed and followed up by ultrasound, but, if surgical intervention is planned, then X-ray angiography may be required. Contrast-enhanced MRA (CE-MRA) provides an accurate alternative that cannot only define the size and extent of the aneurysm (above and below the renal vessels) but also demonstrate the presence of significant thrombus around the effective lumen. In addition, CE-MRA can be used to identify associated renal artery stenosis and disease of the iliac vessels, and for the planning for arterial cross-clamping1,2. CE-MRA can also be used in patients with thoracic aortic disssections to demonstrate true and false lumens and to identify the presence of branch vessel stenoses3.