Normal values of aortic dimensions assessed by multidetector computed tomography in the Copenhagen General Population Study

• Published in: European heart journal cardiovascular imaging 2019-08, Vol.20 (8), p.939-948
• Main Authors: Pham, Michael H C, Ballegaard, Christian, de Knegt, Martina C, Sigvardsen, Per E, Sørgaard, Mathias H, Fuchs, Andreas, Kühl, Jørgen T, Taudorf, Mikkel, Nordestgaard, Børge G, Køber, Lars V, Kofoed, Klaus F
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• ISSN: 2047-2404; 2047-2412
• DOI: 10.1093/ehjci/jez012

Accurate assessment of aortic dimensions can be achieved using contrast-enhanced computed tomography. The aim of this study was to define normal values and determinants of aortic dimensions throughout multiple key anatomical landmarks of the aorta in healthy individuals from the Copenhagen General Population Study. The study group consisted of 902 healthy subjects selected from 3000 adults undergoing cardiovascular thoracic and abdominal computed tomography-angiography (CTA), where systematic measurements of aortic dimensions were performed retrospectively. Individuals included were without any of the following predefined cardiovascular risk factors: (i) self-reported angina pectoris; (ii) hypertension; (iii) hypercholesterolaemia; (iv) taking cardiovascular prescribed medication including diuretics, statins, or aspirin; (v) overweight (defined as body mass index ≥30 kg/m2); (vi) diabetes mellitus (self-reported or blood glucose >8 mmol/L); and (vii) chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Maximal aortic diameters were measured at seven aortic regions: sinuses of Valsalva, sinotubular junction, ascending aorta, mid-descending aorta, abdominal aorta at the diaphragm, abdominal aorta at the coeliac trunk, and infrarenal abdominal aorta. Median age was 52 years, and 396 (40%) were men. Men had significantly larger aortic diameters at all levels compared with women (P