Multi-detector row helical CT angiography of hepatic vessels: Depiction with dual-arterial phase acquisition during single breath hold

PURPOSE: To determine by using multi-detector row computed tomography (CT), in a triphasic hepatic dynamic study, which included single breath-hold dual-arterial phase acquisition, the accuracy and frequency of visualization of the small hepatic arterial and portal venous anatomy with angiographic correlation. MATERIALS AND METHODS: In 62 patients, pre- and postcontrast triphasic helical CT were performed by using a multi-detector row CT scanner, with 2.5-mm detector row collimation, at a pitch of 6. The first and second arterial phases were performed during a single breath hold. One reader, blinded to the results of the angiography, reviewed the first arterial phase images on a cine display to assess hepatic arterial anatomy. Visualization of the portal vein and its branches was assessed by using second arterial and portal venous phase images. RESULTS: Major arterial trunks (celiac, hepatic, superior mesenteric, and left gastric) were depicted in all cases. Visualization of small arteries was as follows: right and left hepatic, 62 (100%) of 62; middle hepatic, 52 (87%) of 60; cystic, 47 (90%) of 52; right gastric, 50 (89%) of 56; and right and left inferior phrenic, 57 (92%) and 55 (89%) of 62 respectively Subsegmental or more peripheral branches of the portal vein were depicted in 83% of cases during the second arterial phase and in 96% during the portal phase. There was no difference in degree of visualization in these two phases. CONCLUSION: Multi-detector row CT angiography was able to depict the hepatic vascular anatomy.