CT angiography of the mesenteric circulation.

Significant advancements in computed tomography (CT) scanner technology along with the development of powerful and affordable 3-dimensional (3D) software have resulted in new applications for CT imaging. The mesenteric vasculature was traditionally imaged with conventional angiography, but can now easily be imaged rapidly and safely using multidetector-row CT (MDCT) scanners and 3D imaging software. CT can now be used to visualize the normal mesenteric vasculature, both arteries and veins, identify important anatomic variants, and evaluate a wide range of pathology. This article examines the technique of MDCT and its role in imaging the mesenteric circulation.