Abstract
PURPOSE: To determine whether a peripheral high-attenuating crescent in an abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) on unenhanced computed tomographic (CT) scans is a sign of impending or active aneurysm rupture. MATERIALS AND METHODS: CT scans were reviewed of 149 consecutive patients operated on because of AAA who had undergone preoperative unenhanced CT scanning. The presence of a peripheral high-attenuating crescent on CT scans was correlated with surgical findings of aneurysm complication. Aneurysm diameter was correlated with presence or absence of pain at the time of CT, high-attenuating crescent, and aneurysm complication. RESULTS: Sensitivity of the high-attenuating crescent sign as an indication of complicated aneurysm was 77%; specificity, 93%; and positive predictive value, 53%. The sign showed a statistically significant correlation with large aneurysm size (P < .001) and presence of pain at the time of CT (P < .003). CONCLUSION: In patients without CT evidence of frank aneurysm leak, the high-attenuating crescent sign should be regarded as a sign of impending AAA rupture, particularly in patients with pain.
Original language | English (US) |
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Pages (from-to) | 359-362 |
Number of pages | 4 |
Journal | Radiology |
Volume | 192 |
Issue number | 2 |
DOIs | |
State | Published - Aug 1994 |
Keywords
- Aneurysm, aortic
- Aneurysm, rupture
- Aorta, CT
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- Radiology Nuclear Medicine and imaging