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Inferior vena cava pseudothrombus in computed tomography using a contrast medium power injector: a potential pitfall.
D Fagelman1, L P Lawrence, K S Black
1Department of Radiology, North Shore University Hospital, Manhasset, NY 11030.
Journal of Computer Assisted Tomography
|November 1, 1987
Summary
Power injector contrast administration in CT scans causes suprarenal inferior vena cava pseudothrombus in 26% of patients. This finding is more common than with manual injection and can mislead interpretations.
Area of Science:
- Radiology
- Medical Imaging
Background:
- Computed tomography (CT) is a vital diagnostic tool.
- Contrast material enhances visualization of anatomical structures and pathologies.
- Power injectors are frequently used for precise and rapid contrast delivery during CT examinations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the incidence of pseudothrombus formation in the suprarenal inferior vena cava.
- To compare the occurrence of pseudothrombus between power injector and manual contrast administration methods.
- To highlight a potential imaging pitfall in CT interpretation.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of 276 patients undergoing CT scans.
- Utilized power injectors for contrast material delivery.
- Evaluated for the presence of pseudothrombus in the suprarenal inferior vena cava.
Main Results:
- A pseudothrombus was identified in the suprarenal inferior vena cava in 71 out of 276 patients (26%).
- The incidence of pseudothrombus was significantly higher compared to historical data from manual injection techniques.
- Pseudothrombus formation was observed as an artifact related to contrast injection dynamics.
Conclusions:
- Power injector use for contrast material in CT is associated with a substantial rate of suprarenal inferior vena cava pseudothrombus.
- Radiologists must be aware of this artifact to avoid misdiagnosis of actual thrombus.
- Understanding contrast delivery methods is crucial for accurate CT interpretation.