How is Aortic aneurysm diagnosed?

Ct scans, MRI Scans , sometimes X-ray

Imaging, This might be a typical Chest X Ray where some Part or The Ascending , Aortic Arch or IN a Lower X Ray an Abdominal Aneurysm. BUT an X Ray Wont be very detailed (Could be missed) especially the Descending Thoracic Aorta which continues from the "back" of the Arch down behind the Heart (blocking the view) as it lies against the spine.... a Transesophageal Echocardiogram is done using a tiny Transducer Is Lowered down the esophagus to scan this part If suspected ... whereas a Echocardiogram (sonogram) is also the safest method & cheapest method and Most Portable Method Unlike a CT scan or MRI which is more concise, but More time consuming and expensive... It is possible to conclude that an anuerysm has "ruptured" when a PT has Extreme Pain ( with a type B often said to feel like a Tearing (ripping) sensation and a Serious Drop In Blood pressure Heart Rate increasing Rapidly Think of a small pump (like a Water Pik as it runs out of water the PUMP speeds up to Try to compensate for "water that isnt there" the heart is a pump as well ....

WHile there certainly are Cardiologists who are Well qualified there are Many who are Very much Clueless when it comes to the Complexity of Aortic surgery ( just as with Heart Transplant surgery you need a special specialist) Typically, you would be seeing a "Cardiothoracic Surgeon" and Often he is assisted By a CardioVascular Surgeon In the case of a serious repair they work In tandem to shorten the time needed ON Heart Lung Bypass and This manner of most serious of Aortic Procedures Isn't Done In just any old Hospital, In the States IT would be typically a teaching hospital where They are able to have the hands available to do this type of procedure

CTA is best.
Echocardiogram
or MRI.
Echo will not visualize the aortic arch well.

CT Scans or angiograms