The aim of our study was to optimize an high-resolution CT angiography protocol for the evaluation of mesenteric arteries using a multislice spiral CT equipment. A volumetric dataset was acquired during dynamic i.v. injection of non-ionic iodine contrast medium; images were subsequently reconstructed by means of a dedicated off-line workstation, equipped with volume-rendering software. Excellent depiction of the anatomy of mesenteric arteries and collateral vessels was obtained in all the cases. In conclusion, new multislice spiral CT scanners allow an optimal noninvasive evaluation of mesenteric arteries, possible up to now only with catheter angiography.