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Abdominal computed tomography technique
Last reviewed: 06.07.2025
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Computer tomography of the abdominal cavity is also performed in the transverse direction (axial slices). The standard slice thickness is 10 mm, the table advancement step is 8 mm, and the overlap of the previous slice is 1 mm. In recent years, there has been a tendency to reduce the slice thickness to 5 - 8 mm.
Sequence of CT image analysis
As with the analysis of CT images of the chest, we recommend that you begin viewing abdominal slices from the abdominal wall tissues. It is advisable to evaluate them sequentially in the cranio-caudal direction. In this case, there is no need to concentrate on all visualized structures at the same time. For novice doctors, we recommend methodically examining each organ or system from top to bottom. In this way, a series of slices is examined two or three times. As an experienced specialist, you will be able to develop your own technique for examining tomograms. An experienced radiologist is able to identify all pathological changes in the slices in one viewing from top to bottom.
It is more convenient to evaluate internal organs located at the same level in cross-section. The liver and spleen are examined simultaneously, paying attention to their similar internal structure, size and smooth edge. It will also be correct to simultaneously evaluate the pancreas and adrenal glands, which are located at the same level. When examining the urinary system as a whole, you can first examine the genitals with the bladder in the small pelvis, and then the upper sections of the gastrointestinal tract, regional lymph nodes and main vessels in the retroperitoneal space.
Finally, the condition of the spinal canal is assessed and the bones are examined for sclerotic or destructive pathological changes.
- Abdominal wall: (look especially carefully at the umbilical and inguinal areas) hernias, enlarged lymph nodes?
- Liver and spleen: is the parenchyma of a homogeneous structure without focal changes? Are the organ boundaries clear?
- Gallbladder: clear borders, thin wall? Stones?
- Pancreas, adrenal glands: are the organ boundaries clear, is the size normal?
- Kidneys, ureters, bladder: is the urinary bladder symmetrical? Signs of obstruction, atrophy? Is the bladder wall smooth and thin?
- Genitals: homogeneous structure of the prostate gland, normal size? Spermatic cord, uterus and ovaries?
- Gastrointestinal tract: clear boundaries, normal wall thickness? Narrowing or widening of the lumen?
- Retroperitoneal space: vessels: aneurysms? Thrombi?
- enlarged lymph nodes?
- mesenteric - (normally up to 10 mm)
- retrocrural - (normally up to 7 mm)
- paraaortic - (normally up to 7 mm)
- iliac - (normally up to 12 mm)
- inguinal - (normally up to 18 mm)
- Bone window: lumbar spine and pelvis: degenerative changes? Fractures? Focal sclerotic or destructive changes? Spinal canal narrowing?
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