[Sensitivity of spiral volumetric TC in the diagnosis of hepatic metastases: advantages of the dual phase technic]

In this report the diagnostic possibilities of volumetric Spiral CT in hepatic metastases detection are discussed. Spiral CT presents numerous advantages when compared to the conventional one; these increase its sensitivity in hepatic metastases diagnosis of approximately 10% (Conventional CT sensitivity 80-85%; Spiral CT sensitivity 90-95%). "Dual phase" technique allows hypervascular metastases diagnosis, often isodense during portal venous phase, hence not detectable with conventional CT. Nonetheless, helical CT for hepatic metastases detection is not yet common, due to high exams costs and more often due to the limited availability of equipment.