Related Experiment Videos
Novel computed tomography scan scoring system predicts the need for intervention after splenic injury
Burke E Thompson1, Burke T Thompson, Felipe Munera
1Department of Central Carolina Surgery, Moses Cone Health System, Greensboro, North Carolina, USA.
Background:
The purpose of this study was to develop a computed tomography (CT) scan screening test to predict the need for intervention in patients with splenic injury.
Methods:
CT scans of 20 patients with blunt injury to the spleen were reviewed to identify findings that correlated with the need for intervention (surgery or embolization). A screening test was created and then validated in CT scans from 56 consecutive patients.
Results:
Three findings correlated with the need for intervention: 1) devascularization or laceration involving 50% or more of the splenic parenchyma, 2) contrast blush greater than one centimeter in diameter (from active extravasation of intravenous contrast material or pseudoaneurysm formation), and 3) a large hemoperitoneum. The sensitivity of the screening test was 100%, specificity was 88%, and overall accuracy was 93%.
Conclusions:
These CT scan grading criteria appears to reliably predict the need for invasive management in patients with blunt injury to the spleen.
Related Concept Videos
01:25Imaging Studies for Cardiovascular System VI: Calcium -Scoring CT
01:10Computed Tomography
The technique was invented in the 1970s and is based on the principle that as X-rays pass through the body, they are absorbed or reflected at different levels. In the technique, a patient lies on a motorized platform while a computerized axial tomography (CAT) scanner rotates...
01:28Imaging Studies for Cardiovascular System V: CT