[Liver evaluation with multidetector CT. Angiotomography, volume determination and virtual hepatectomy]
Patricia M Carrascosa1, Carlos M Capuñay, Pablo Sisco
1Diagnóstico Maipú, San Isidro, Buenos Aires, Argentina. investigacion@diagnosticomaipu.com.ar
Acta Gastroenterologica Latinoamericana
|April 6, 2007
Summary
Multidetector computed tomography (MDCT) enhances presurgical liver tumor evaluation. This technique, including virtual hepatectomy and 3D volume analysis, aids surgeons in planning procedures and ensuring sufficient remnant liver volume for patients.
Area of Science:
- Medical Imaging
- Surgical Planning
- Hepatobiliary Surgery
Background:
- Accurate presurgical assessment of liver tumors is crucial for successful surgical outcomes.
- Multidetector computed tomography (MDCT) offers advanced visualization capabilities for complex liver anatomy.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate a novel MDCT technique for presurgical liver tumor assessment.
- To determine the utility of angiographic reconstructions, virtual hepatectomy, and 3D liver volume determination.
- To correlate MDCT findings with surgical outcomes.
Main Methods:
- Twenty patients with liver tumors underwent MDCT with dual-phase contrast enhancement.
- 3D liver and lesion volumes were calculated, alongside virtual hepatectomy and vascular reconstructions.
- Correlation between MDCT-derived and surgical liver volumes was assessed using the Bland and Altman method.
Main Results:
- Virtual liver segmentation facilitated 100% successful one-stage surgeries without complications.
- A strong correlation coefficient of 0.83 was observed between MDCT and surgical liver volume measurements.
Conclusions:
- Presurgical virtual hepatectomy using MDCT is a valuable tool for liver tumor evaluation.
- Angiographic findings and volume determination aid in surgical technique selection.
- This information helps surgeons ensure adequate remnant liver volume, preventing post-surgical insufficiency.

