There are numerous pulse sequences available for evaluating the diverse pathology that affects the thoracic aorta. Preliminary imaging using TrueFISP and precontrast and postcontrast T1 GRE-FS is usually required to assess morphology of the aorta and adjacent structures. CE-MRA is the mainstay in the investigative approach. The addition of temporally resolved subsecond CE-MRA is particularly useful for assessing high-flow vascular lesions such as shunts, while at the same time not adding much to the overall contrast load. PC-MRA may help further characterize stenotic lesions and can be useful for monitoring progression of disease.