Preoperative multidetector computed tomography evaluation of the artery of Adamkiewicz and its origin

OBJECTIVE: To assess the usefulness of MDCT in the preoperative evaluation of the artery of Adamkiewicz (ARM) and its parent artery. METHODS: Ten patients with thoracoabdominal vascular diseases underwent MDCT of the entire aorta and iliac arteries. The visualization of the ARM, and its branching level and site of origin, and the continuity of the intercostal/lumbar arteries with the ARM were investigated. RESULTS: In 9 of the 10 patients, the ARM was clearly visualized. The entire length from the intercostal/lumbar arteries to the ARM could be traced in 8 of the 10 patients. Surgical treatment or stentgraft insertion was based on a consideration of the vascular supply to the ARM. No postoperative ischemic spinal complications occurred. CONCLUSIONS: MDCT permits the evaluation of the ARM for its entire length and provides information on the intercostal and lumbar arteries and entire aorta.