Aortic emergencies comprise of a list of conditions which are uncommon but are potentially fatal. Prognosis is usually determined by emergent diagnosis and treatment and hence radiology plays a key role in patient management. In this article, we aim to review the various causes of aortic emergencies and the relevant imaging findings placing special emphasis on acute aortic syndromes.
Keywords: acute aortic syndrome; aortic aneurysm; aortic dissection; aortic emergency; intramural blood pool; intramural hematoma; penetrating atherosclerotic ulcer; traumatic aortic injury; ulcer-like projection.