Thoracic Aorta (Multidetector Computed Tomography and Magnetic Resonance Evaluation)

Electrocardiographic gating, multidetector computed tomography (CT), dual-energy CT, parallel magnetic resonance imaging techniques, and advanced postprocessing methods are some of the many recent advancements that have revolutionized cross-sectional imaging of thoracic aorta. Imaging appearances of aortic disease can be complex and variable. Normal findings may simulate abnormalities, and many abnormalities may be asymptomatic. Knowledge and understanding of the imaging techniques, imaging findings of acute thoracic aortic syndromes, natural history of aortic diseases, and aortic surgical techniques may help to appropriately perform and interpret aorta-specific radiology studies.