Further observations on the medical efficacy of computed tomography of the chest and abdomen

• Published in: Radiology Vol. 137; no. 3; p. 719
• Main Authors: Robbins, A H, Pugatch, R D, Gerzof, S G, Faling, L J, Johnson, W C, Spira, R, Gale, D R
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: United States 01-12-1980
• Subjects: Adenoma, Islet Cell - diagnostic imaging; Carcinoma, Bronchogenic - diagnostic imaging; Evaluation Studies as Topic; Humans; Lung Neoplasms - diagnostic imaging; Male; Middle Aged; Pancreatic Neoplasms - diagnostic imaging; Radiography, Abdominal; Radiography, Thoracic; Tomography, X-Ray Computed
• ISSN: 0033-8419
• DOI: 10.1148/radiology.137.3.6255512

A review of 262 consecutive 2-second CT scans (101 thoracic and 161 abdominal) revealed that 36% contributed information critical to diagnosis, prognosis or therapy. As a result of CT-derived data, major surgery was cancelled in 16 cases and planned surgery modified in 11. Similarly, CT contributed to treatment planning in 20 instances. Forty-four per cent of the studies produced new information but did not have definite clinical impact. Marked improvement in efficacy is noted when these data are compared to our previous study of 2 1/2-minute CT examinations. The improvement is ascribed to better imaging (faster scan speed), improved diagnostic skill, better patient selection, and improved credibility of CT-derived data.