Expanded applications of CT. Helical scanning in five common acute conditions.

Helical CT has become a valuable imaging tool for detection of pulmonary embolism, deep venous thrombosis, ureteral colic, acute small-bowel obstruction, and acute appendicitis. Generally, helical CT has good sensitivity and specificity values, and scans can be performed more quickly than previous gold standard diagnostic examinations for the conditions mentioned. In some cases, helical CT can also identify other findings that may be responsible for a patient's symptoms. One notable disadvantage of helical CT is the charge for the procedure, which in some circumstances can be considerably more costly than diagnostic examinations preferred previously. However, because helical CT can often obviate the need for other tests--and may consequently reduce hospital stays--this technology may have the ability to reduce overall expenditures. Cost of helical CT is therefore a multifaceted issue and requires further study before conclusions can be drawn.