Draped aorta: CT sign of contained leak of aortic aneurysms.

PURPOSE

To evaluate the usefulness of a new computed tomographic (CT) sign of "draped aorta" in the diagnosis of a contained leak in an aortic aneurysm.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

CT scans were retrospectively evaluated in 10 patients in whom an unidentifiable aortic wall and posterior aspect of the aorta that followed the vertebral contour were seen. CT findings were compared with those at surgery.

RESULTS

Seven patients had a deficient aortic wall and a contained leak. Two patients had a deficient wall and a mycotic aneurysm. One patient had a false aneurysm at the aortic graft anastomosis.

CONCLUSION

On CT images, draping of the aorta if highly indicative of deficiency of the aortic wall and a contained leak.