Specific Anatomic RegionStomach
ApplicationGastric mass
AuthorHorton HM, Fishman EK
Reference SourceSpiral CT of the Esophagus and Stomach (in: Spiral CT: Principles, Techniques and Clinical Applications. Fishman, Jeffrey, eds. 1998)
Scanner UsedSiemens Somatom Plus-4
Injection Rate2-3ml/sec
Contrast Volume and Type120ml of Omnipaque-350
Area ScannedFrom diaphragm to top of iliac crest
Scan Delay 30sec
Length of Spiral (time)Up to 40sec
Slice Thickness3mm
Table Speed/Pitch5mm/sec
Reconstruction Interval2-3mm
3D Technique UsedNone usually needed although virtual endoscopy may be useful.
Comment:
1. We classically would distend the stomach with 750cc of 3% Hypaque. We now routinely use 750-1000 cc of water. This allows better evaluation of the gastric wall and definition of tumors, etc.
2. Another reliable protocol is 5mm collimation and a pitch of 1 and reconstruction of data at 5mm intervals. This is primarily as a screening mode.