Lihuan Wang MD, Presenter: Nothing to Disclose

Brett Gratz MD, Abstract Co-Author: Nothing to Disclose

Christine Marie Peterson MD, Abstract Co-Author: Nothing to Disclose

Christine Onsy Menias MD, Abstract Co-Author: Nothing to Disclose

Sanjeev Bhalla MD, Abstract Co-Author: Nothing to Disclose

Jay Paul Heiken MD, Abstract Co-Author: Nothing to Disclose

Lina Maria Sierra MD, Abstract Co-Author: Nothing to Disclose

Tom Pilgram PhD, Abstract Co-Author: Nothing to Disclose

Gregorio A Sicard MD, Abstract Co-Author: Nothing to Disclose

et al, Abstract Co-Author: Nothing to Disclose

1) To highlight the CT features of abdominal aortic aneurysms, ruptured or impending rupture. 2)To emphasize the various specific signs in discriminating ruptured and nonruptured abdominal aortic aneurysms and potential pitfalls for the signs. 3) To elucidate the added value of intravenous contrast in the setting of an unstable abdominal aortic

CT is frequently performed in the Emergency Department for the evaluation of abdominal pain. Aortic aneurysms are often encountered during these examinations. Radiologists must be aware of the CT findings of an unstable aortic aneurysm (one that has ruptured or is about to rupture) in order to determine when the aortic aneurysm is responsible for the patient's presentation and to ensure that the patient is managed appropriately. The purpose of this exhibit is to highlight the CT findings of an unstable aortic aneurysm, to review the previously reported CT findings (draped aorta, high-attenuating crescent, and discontinuous calcium), and to demonstrate a newly described finding (tangential calcium). With the advent of endoluminal treatment, intravenous contrast may be indicated in the acute setting. The indications for intravenous contrast administration in patients with suspected or demonstrated abdominal aortic aneurysm rupture will be covered.

Wang, L, Gratz, B, Peterson, C, Menias, C, Bhalla, S, Heiken, J, Sierra, L, Pilgram, T, Sicard, G, et al, , Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Rupture-CT Features: A Pictorial Review.  Radiological Society of North America 2005 Scientific Assembly and Annual Meeting, November 27 - December 2, 2005 ,Chicago IL. http://archive.rsna.org/2005/4415788.html