Coronal upper abdominal anatomy: technique and gastrointestinal applications

Area of Science:

• Radiology
• Medical Imaging

Background:

• Ultrasound and computed tomography (CT) are crucial for upper abdominal imaging.
• Gas-filled bowel loops can significantly limit visualization in the upper abdomen.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the utility of the coronal approach in ultrasonography and CT for upper abdominal imaging.
• To highlight the coronal view's effectiveness in overcoming visualization challenges posed by bowel gas.

Main Methods:

• Utilized ultrasonography with a coronal approach to examine subphrenic, perirenal, hepatic, and subhepatic regions.
• Explored reformatted coronal CT for anatomical demonstration and diagnostic evaluation of the upper abdomen.

Main Results:

• The coronal ultrasound approach provides valuable bilateral views of subphrenic and perirenal areas, and the right hepatic/subhepatic regions.
• This approach can be the sole method for visualizing the high abdominal region when bowel gas is present.
• Coronal CT serves as an effective teaching tool and aids in upper abdominal evaluation, despite spatial resolution limitations.

Conclusions:

• The coronal approach is a beneficial technique for ultrasonographic assessment of the upper abdomen, particularly in challenging cases.
• Coronal CT is a useful adjunct for anatomical understanding and diagnostic assessment of the upper abdomen.