CSD Interpreting Abdominal CT Scans

A bulge or widening in the aorta, the main artery carrying blood from the heart.

A serious condition where the inner lining of the aorta tears, causing blood to leak into the wall of the aorta.

A condition where the blood supply to the intestines is reduced, often causing abdominal pain.

The point where the large intestine (colon) joins the small intestine.

The pouch at the beginning of the large intestine where the appendix is attached.

An inflammation of the appendix, a small finger-shaped pouch that extends from the caecum.

The presence of gas in a fluid collection, often indicating an infection.

A specific pattern seen on an ultrasound image that suggests an aortic dissection.

A systematic approach to interpreting abdominal CT scans that focuses on specific elements in a sequential manner. It helps trainees identify key features and improve their diagnostic skills.

Free air found in the abdominal cavity, usually indicating a perforation in a hollow organ (e.g., stomach, intestines).

Gas trapped within the walls of the intestines.

Distinct difference between gas and fluid within an abdominal collection or cavity. Seen on CT scans as a horizontal line.

Assessing the soft tissues of the abdomen, including organs like liver, spleen, kidneys, pancreas, and bladder.

Evaluating the bones of the pelvis, including the iliac wings, sacrum, and pubic bones.

Examining the blood vessels in the abdomen, including the aorta, inferior vena cava, and other major vessels.

Analyzing the individual organs and structures within the abdomen, looking for specific signs of disease or abnormality.

A condition where fluid builds up in the abdominal cavity. It can be caused by various factors affecting the liver, heart, or kidneys.

Fluid accumulation in the abdomen that is caused by high pressure in the veins or low protein levels in the blood.

Fluid buildup in the abdomen caused by inflammation or infection.

A condition where blood accumulates in the abdominal cavity, often due to injury, surgery, or ruptured organs.

Abnormal thickening and hardening of the walls of arteries due to the buildup of plaque.

The process of calcification in the arteries, making them hard and brittle.

A condition where the bladder, kidneys, and collecting system are examined

The visualization of the narrowing of blood vessels on CT scans, suggesting potential blockage.

Surgical procedures in the pelvic region or retroperitoneal abdominal space can lead to injuries to the urinary tract.

These are some examples: bile leak, bile duct obstruction, and infection.

Cancers are often discovered due to their effects on the body, like bowel obstruction or jaundice.

A large kidney in comparison to the other side could indicate renal cell carcinoma.

Identifying tumors and their consequences early can help with decision-making, but often warrants conservative treatment.

The review of CT scans and clinical information for patients with acute abdominal issues helps guide the initial management.

When surgical intervention might be necessary, consulting with a radiologist is essential to confirm the diagnosis, especially if the findings are unclear.

Metastatic tumors can grow rapidly and mimic the appearance of the original tumor on imaging.

A medical imaging technique that uses X-rays to create detailed images of the abdomen and pelvis.

A type of CT scan used to visualize the abdomen and see the organs inside, often used to investigate abdominal pain.

A type of pelvic CT scan used to visualize the bones, organs and muscles in the pelvic region.

A condition where inflammation has spread to the lining of the abdominal cavity, often caused by a ruptured appendix.

A surgical procedure to open the abdominal cavity to access internal organs for diagnosis or treatment.

A benign, fatty tumor that commonly develops in the abdominal wall.

A type of hernia that occurs when a portion of the intestine protrudes through a weakness in the abdominal wall.

The cautious use of CT scan findings by medical professionals, particularly in the emergency department, to recognize conditions early and initiate treatment.

A condition where the intestines expand with gas, often seen in patients with bowel obstruction.

An injury to the urinary tract, often caused by medical procedures.