Pre-operative computed tomography in abdominal aortic aneurysms

Major additional pathology, in the abdomen or directly related to the aneurysm itself, which influenced surgical management was demonstrated in 39 (34.5%) of 113 patients with suspected abdominal aortic aneurysm who had undergone preoperative assessment with computed tomography (CT). Major additional pathology within the abdomen was shown in 11 (9.7%) and related to the aneurysm itself in 26 (23%). Therefore, CT has a significant impact on operative management of such patients and should be routine in the pre-operative evaluation of abdominal aortic aneurysms. The current roles of CT angiography and magnetic resonance angiography are discussed.