computed tomography of the abdomen

Last reviewed 01/2018

Computed tomography of the abdomen is a good technique for assessing the size and consistency of solid organs:

  • liver:
    • the size of the liver and the intrahepatic bile ducts
    • hepatic metastases from colorectal and other carcinomata
    • the texture of the liver parenchyma

  • pancreas:
    • pancreatic carcinomata
    • the appearances and complications of pancreatitis

  • kidney:
    • renal tumours

  • spleen:
    • the size and consistency of the spleen

CT may also be used to assess the following:

  • aorta:
    • abdominal aortic aneurysms and dissections

  • gut:
    • thickening of the gut wall
    • fistulae
    • tumours

  • retroperitoneum:
    • fibrosis
    • haematoma