New imaging techniques, such as computed tomography, magnetic resonance imaging and transesophageal echocardiography, have improved the detection of diseases of the aorta. The development of these techniques has led to further insight into the pathogenesis of aortic diseases, new strategies for decision making and patient management. Early stabilization of patients should be followed by an extensive analysis (staging) of the patient's aorta, the coronary, carotid and peripheral arteries. Therefore, we must understand and use these imaging studies to manage aortic and vascular diseases. Patients with aortic diseases should also be cared for by specialists, including cardiologists, interventional radiologists and vascular/cardiovascular surgeons, who should work as a team and be involved in all the decision making steps.