The thoracic aorta

The first section of Chapter 12 details an approach to a systematic examination of the aortic root and thoracic aorta. The limitations (due to interposition of the large airways) and artefacts encountered when assessing the thoracic aorta are discussed. Normal aortic dimensions are listed in tabular format. The remainder of the chapter is concerned with the pathologies affecting the thoracic aorta, namely: aortic atheroma, aortic aneurysm, acute aortic syndromes (dissection, intramural haematoma, and penetrating ulcer), and traumatic aortic injury. Where relevant, reference to appropriate guidelines and surgical techniques are made.