Abstract:
ObjectiveTo explore the imaging findings in and clinical value of multiple-slice computed tomography angiography (MSCTA) in acute aortic intramural hematoma (AAIH).
MethodsA total of 76 AAIH cases with complete clinical information were recruited and subjected to MSCTA examinations.The patients were divided into progressive and stable groups according to the follow-up changes.Then, the clinical data and MSCTA features were compared.All outcomes were analyzed statistically.The quantitative data of normal distribution and abnormal distribution were tested by two independent samples and Mann-Whitney U test, respectively.The qualitative data were tested by chi-square test.
ResultsA total of 27(35.5%) type A cases and 49(64.5%) type B cases were classified according to Stanford criteria.No significant difference in the maximum thickness of aortic hematoma, number of ulcer-like projections, degree of focal enhancement, and severity of pleural effusion was noted between the Stanford A and B groups (Z=-0.788, χ2=0.441, χ2=0.383, χ2=0.338, all P > 0.05).The ulcer depths in the Stanford A and B groups were (2.8±2.9) and (2.5±3.3) mm, respectively (Z=-2.345, P=0.019).Meanwhile, 15(19.7%) cases (12 type A cases and 3 type B cases) were accompanied by pericardial effusion (χ2=16.138, P < 0.001).Twenty cases belonged to the progressive group, whereas 21 cases were included in the stable group.Univariate statistical analysis showed significant differences in ulcer-like projection, ulcer depth, and pleural effusion between the progressive and stable groups (χ2=9.227, Z=-2.689, χ2=4.111, all P < 0.05).By contrast, no significant difference in Stanford subtype, maximum aortic thickness, maximum aortic hematoma thickness, focal enhancement, and pleural effusion was noted between the Stanford A and B groups (χ2=1.453, Z=-0.874, χ2=0.006, χ2=1.733, all P > 0.05).Multivariate analysis revealed that the amount of ulcer-like projections was the independent risk factor for AAIH progression.
ConclusionsAAIH manifested as annular and/or crescent thickening aortic wall with higher density in plain scan and non enhancement in enhanced scan using MSCTA technique.MSCTA plays an important role in the correct diagnosis of AAIH patients.The number of ulcer-like projections is the independent risk factor for disease progression.Close follow up is hence recommended during the early stage of AAIH using MSCTA.