Abdominal computed tomography. Comparison of the usefulness of goal-directed v non-goal-directed studies

Publisher Website
Google Scholar
Abstract
The indications of 210 consecutive abdominal computed tomography (CT) scans are reviewed. A total of 166 CT scans were done in a goal-directed fashion, whereas 44 were non-goal-directed as part of the evaluation of nonspecific abdominal pain, fever or weight loss. Of CT scans done in a goal-directed fashion, 43% revealed significant new information as opposed to only 2% of non-goal-directed studies. Of goal-directed CT scans, 16% were normal as opposed to 41% of non-goal-directed CT scans. In at least 16% of cases, abdominal CT scans revealed data confirmatory of information obtained by other modalities. Abdominal CT scanning used in a non-goal-directed fashion apparently is rarely helpful; however, goal-directed scanning often yields important information.