Update on multidetector computed tomography angiography of the abdominal aorta.

Multidetector computed tomography angiography (MDCTA) allows high spatial resolution, including nearly isotropic submillimeter resolution in the X, Y, and Z planes, and rapid image acquisition in a single breath hold, with greatly enhanced diagnostic capabilities over conventional CT. MDCTA has largely replaced digital subtraction angiography because it is faster, less invasive, and provides more information. When technical parameters are optimized, it provides the radiologist with the information needed to diagnose life threatening diseases of the aortoiliac system, gives critical information for the vascular surgeon or interventional radiologist to treat that disease, and identifies subsequent complications related to therapy. This article briefly discusses the technical components and optimization of MDCTA of the abdominal aorta and iliac arteries (aortoiliac system) and examines the diseases of the aortoiliac system evaluated by MDCTA. Copyright 2010 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.