3D morphometry using automated aortic segmentation in native MR angiography: an alternative to contrast enhanced MRA?

High-resolution imaging of the aorta is essential for preoperative planning and follow-up of patients with aortic disease (1). Today multidetector computed tomography (MDCT) is the gold standard to assess aortic pathologies before and after treatment because it has the advantages of high spatial resolution, short acquisition time and wide availability. On the downside, patients with aortic disease are often repeatedly exposed to a significant amount of ionizing radiation and nephrotoxic contrast agents with the risk to induce renal insufficiency, especially in this compromised patient group with a high incidence of coexistent cardiovascular and renovascular disease