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Role of computed tomography in diverticulitis
The Journal of Computed Tomography
|April 1, 1987
Summary
Computed tomography (CT) effectively identifies diverticulitis complications like inflammatory masses and abscesses. Rectal contrast enhances CT
Area of Science:
- Radiology
- Gastroenterology
- Surgical Pathology
Background:
- Diverticulitis is a common condition requiring accurate diagnosis.
- Radiologic imaging is crucial for evaluating suspected diverticulitis complications.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the utility of computed tomography (CT) in diagnosing diverticulitis and its complications.
- To identify key CT findings indicative of diverticulitis and associated fistulas.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of 14 patients with clinically suspected diverticulitis requiring radiologic investigation.
- Analysis of computed tomography findings, including administration of rectal contrast medium.
Main Results:
- Computed tomography reliably detected inflammatory masses (10/14) and abscesses (2/14).
- Other observed signs included pericolic fat stranding, colonic wall thickening, and lumen narrowing.
- Colovesical fistulas were identified in 3 patients.
Conclusions:
- Computed tomography is a valuable tool for diagnosing diverticulitis and its complications.
- Rectal contrast administration improves the detection of colonic origin of inflammation and colovesical fistulas.