Imaging of Aortic Dissection: CT, MRI, and Angiography

Imaging is integral to the initial diagnosis of patients with a suspected aortic dissection; and should consist of multi-detector computed tomography (MDCT), transesophageal echocardiogram (TEE) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) based on the patient stability and institution capabilities. In this chapter we review MDCT, MRI and angiography in the setting of acute aortic dissections in regards to protocol considerations, proper measurement techniques and features which should be included in diagnostic reports due to their implications on immediate management and prognosis.