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 is highly indicative of deficiency of the aortic wall and a contained leak.