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Published on: August 8, 2019
Splenic blood flow: evaluation with computed tomography
M J Blomley1, M Kormano, R Coulden
1Department of Radiology, University of Chicago Hospitals, IL, USA.
Academic Radiology
|January 1, 1997
Summary
Computed tomography (CT) effectively studies splenic perfusion, revealing normal blood flow in controls and increased splenic blood flow in cirrhotic patients. This imaging technique shows promise for evaluating spleen conditions.
Area of Science:
- Radiology
- Medical Imaging
- Physiology
Background:
- Splenic perfusion assessment is crucial for diagnosing various conditions.
- Conventional methods for evaluating splenic blood flow can be limited.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the utility of computed tomography (CT) for assessing splenic perfusion.
- To quantify splenic blood flow and enhancement patterns using CT.
Main Methods:
- Electron-beam CT was employed in control patients and those with splenoportal or other splenic diseases.
- Iohexol contrast was administered intravenously, followed by saline.
- Splenic perfusion was calculated by relating maximal splenic enhancement to aortic time-enhancement curves.
Main Results:
- Mean splenic perfusion was consistent with predictions in controls and a miscellaneous group.
- Cirrhotic patients showed a trend towards lower perfusion, though not statistically significant, but had significantly increased total splenic blood volume.
- Significant perfusion heterogeneity was noted in 41% of spleens, which normalized by 2 minutes.
Conclusions:
- Computed tomography (CT) demonstrates potential as a valuable tool for studying splenic blood flow.
- CT can identify perfusion abnormalities and quantify blood flow in the spleen.
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