Computed tomography in the evaluation of abdominal trauma

Four patients with blunt abdominal trauma underwent computed tomography (CT) as part of their diagnostic evaluation. In each case CT accurately demonstrated the pathology and the extent of injury. The results suggest that routine use of CT scanning may be an effective screening modality in the traumatized patient. It is perhaps more specific than radioisotope scanning and may eventually reduce the need for invasive techniques such as angiography.