Visualization and Quantification of Increased Tangential Velocities in Ascending Aortic Aneurysms Using 4D Phase Contrast

Benjamin R. Landgraf¹, Kevin M. Johnson², Erik T. Bieging¹, Oliver Wieben², Christopher J. Franois¹

Complex blood flow patterns in the ascending aorta have been associated with the pathophysiology of various cardiovascular diseases, including ascending aortic aneurysms. Helical and vortical flow in patients with aneurysms present an increased tangential force that could lead to further aortic dilation, dissection, or rupture. Characterization and quantification of these flow patterns could help predict disease progression. This study investigates several hemodynamic parameters of the ascending aorta in 11 normal volunteers and 13 patients, including peak and mean velocities, calculation of a tangential percentage of velocity, and characterization of flow patterns.