Computed tomographic positive contrast peritoneography.

Despite the use of intravenous and oral contrast material and antiperistaltic pharmaceuticals, abdominal computed tomography has limitations in the morphological study of the gastrointestinal tract, retroperitoneum, and pelvis. To better define these regions, positive contrast material was infused into the peritoneal space prior to abdominal CT. Results included: improved visualization of the peritoneal cavity and its contents; evident demarcation between the retroperitoneal space and intraperitoneal structures; sharp delineation of serosal surfaces of the bowel and solid viscera; and an obvious distinction between impinging bowel loops and pelvic organs.