The Vascular System: Aorta and the Branches, Vena Cava and the Branches

Abstract

Multiphase postmortem computed tomographic angiography (MPMCTA) visualizes the aorta itself and the large and small arteries originating from it. In the chest and in the abdomen, these large arteries and their branches are visible with a diagnostic quality comparable to that of angiography in the living. The same is valid for the vena cava and its contributing vessels. Smaller arteries are visualized throughout their entire course. In the chest and abdomen, arterial and venous arcades connecting neighboring arteries and veins can be analyzed. If these small arteries and branches of larger arteries are to be visualized, it is suggested that the arterial phase of MPMCTA be divided into two parts: after intra-arterial injection of 500 mL contrast substance, an early whole body CT scan helps to avoid the superimposition of multiple vessels and contrast agent extravasation. Thereafter, 1200 mL contrast substance is injected and the whole body CT is repeated.