Thomas R. Havrilla

Definitive role of CT scanning of the pancreas. The second year's experience.

In a group of 188 patients, 192 computed tomographic (CT) scans of the pancreas were done, and the diagnostic accuracy of CT determined relative to other modalities. CT was the most effective method of detecting neoplastic and inflammatory diseases. The full extent of the disease process, including involvement of the retroperitoneum and metastasis to the liver, was visualized with one examination. Calcification and cystic collections associated with pancreatitis were also clearly seen.

The floating aorta in computerized tomography: A sign of retroperitoneal pathology

Abstract The diagnosis of retroperitoneal disease including mass lesions has been a difficult one to make in the past and many conventional radiologic modes, including arteriography, ultrasonography, excretory urography and lymphangiography, have been used. A reliable sign of retroperitoneal pathology is anterior displacement of the abdominal aorta which was previously described utilizing lateral roentgenology (1), arteriography, (2) and ultrasonography (3).

Pseudocyst of the pancreas with perirenal extension: Demonstration by computed tomography

Abstract An uncommon case of a patient with a pseudocyst of the pancreas clinically mimicking a renal mass is demonstrated by CT including the extent of dissection. Once the cyst in the pancreas was known, other radiographic methods helped to confirm the diagnosis. A review of the literature concerning pseudocyst extension to the kidney is also presented.

Computerized tomography-guided percutaneous transhepatic biliary drainage

Abstract With the introduction of computed tomography (CT) of the body, an excellent cross-sectional image display of the various organ systems within the abdomen became available. As a result, it soon became apparent that with the use of computed tomography percutaneous aspiration biopsies could be facilitated (1). Using computed tomography guidance it is now possible to accurately place a biopsy instrument within virtually any organ in the abdomen. CT-guided needle procedures are useful not only for the purpose of diagnosis, but are valuable as a therapeutic tool in selective patients. We wish to describe a method of computed tomography-guided percutaneous transhepatic biliary drainage which we have utilized in five patients to accomplish definitive relief of obstructed biliary systems. Each of our patients had an inoperable carcinoma either in the head of the pancreas or in the region of the porta hepatis which resulted in obstruction of the biliary system.