[Value of x-ray computed tomography in the study of the inferior vena cava in urologic practice]

The CT scan provides a reliable evaluation of the inferior vena cava, especially since the development of second and third generation scanners. It can readily detect congenital malformations and obstructive anomalies complicating renal cancer and it is also able to determine the tumoral or thrombotic nature of the venous obstruction. This excellent definition of the vessel reduces the indications for caval angiography to a few exceptional cases.