[Portal computed tomography. Methodology and indications]

CT arterioportography (CTAP) requires intra-arterial contrast material via the superior mesenteric (splenic) artery. Malignant hepatic tumors are characterized by arterial vascularization and only minimal portal blood supply. Portal contrast therefore reveals small tumors with a high sensitivity of 68-87%. Sensitivity is higher in metastatic tumors than in hepatocellular carcinomas. CTAP is the method of choice for evaluation of the number, size and location of hepatic tumors prior to surgical intervention. If the findings are unclear, additional magnetic resonance imaging and sonography during the operation are useful.