Magnetic Resonance AngiograPhY and Colour- DoPPler SonograPhY in the Evaluation of Abdominal Aortic Aneurysms

Abstract

An abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) is defined as widening of the infrarenal aortic diameter to more than 1.5 times its diameter at the level of the renal arteries. The management of abdominal aortic aneurysms requires the precise determination of the diameter and length of the aneurysm as well as its proximal and distal extents.

Twelve patients with ages ranging from 39-78 years with the suspicion of having an AAA were studied. Eleven patients performed MRA examinations while nine patients underwent Colour Doppler ultrasonography.

MRA provided more helpful information as regards demonstrating the upper extent of the aneurysm where colour Doppler US could not accurately delineate the proximal limit of the aneurysm. However, colour Doppler US is useful in screening patients with suspicion of having an AAA as well as for following up patients where conservative management was decided. Doppler ultrasonography is also less expensive and more easily tolerated by the patients.