Spectral computed tomography in abdominal and pelvic pathologies. A practical guide.

Spectral computed tomography has represented a major breakthrough in radiology thanks to its multiple applications and potential to provide more information than conventional CT techniques. It is very useful for diagnosing and describing findings as well as the management of patients, thus avoiding further imaging or invasive procedures. The aim of this article is to explain basic concepts of spectral CT and highlight key practical features in a range of abdominal and pelvic pathologies, along with a brief description of different post-processing maps and their clinical applications including incidental, oncological and urgent findings.