Diagnosis of aortic artery intramural hematoma by electron beam computed tomography

Objective: To investigate the value of electron beam computed tomography(EBCT) in diagnosing aortic intramural hematoma(IMH) and its imaging guided significance in clinical treatment. Methods: The clinical data and EBCT findings with continuous volume scanning in 13 cases of aortic intramural hematomas were analysed. Results: The direct signs of IMH were crescent or circular thickening of aortic wall without intimal flap as well as true and false lumen. Seven cases with slight enhancement of the external wall of the hematoma. The CT attenuation value of intramural hematoma was from 60 to 108Hu. The indirect signs were penetrating ulcer(9 cases), calcification ingression(3 cases), atherosclerosis(8 cases) and unilateral or bilateral pleural effusion(7 cases). The complication signs were aneurysms(2 cases) and typical type B aortic dissection(1 case). Conclusion: EBCT is a fast and noninvasive examination technique, with which the direct, indirect and complication signs of aortic IMH can be clearly shown. All these signs have important value for clinical diagnosis and treatment.