Artifactual aortic dissection as a result of post-mortem CT angiography

摘要: Abstract An 82-year-old woman who died unexpectedly at home was admitted to our institute for investigation into her cause of death. Extensive subarachnoid hemorrhage identified on the admission post-mortem computed tomography (PMCT) scan. Subsequent angiography (PMCTA) utilizing embalming principles and equipment leak contrast from right middle cerebral artery indicative ruptured aneurysm this confirmed autopsy. Unexpectedly after autopsy, PMCTA review revealed a large intimal flap apparent extensive aortic dissection arising tip infusion cannula in left femoral ascending aorta, rupturing pericardial sac. This not keeping with PMCT detected although atherosclerosis present. finding mirrors similar artifact recently described literature secondary embalming. In case, it appeared be an technique due mechanical disruption arterial wall point cannulation flow solution both true lumen creating false lumen. With increasing use imaging assist medico-legal death investigations, is imperative that practitioners aware take consideration changes artifacts can caused by such imaging. addition, important all cases undergoing have preliminary comparison findings are presented pathologist prior autopsy correlation dissection.