[Value of computed tomography in the diagnosis of fistulas].
OBJECTIVE
The purpose of the study was to determine the value of computed tomography (CT) in demonstrating fistulae in comparison with conventional radiographic methods.


METHODS
In a prospective study 25 patients were evaluated by conventional radiographic methods and CT.


RESULTS
The identification of the fistulous tract was possible with CT in 27 of 29 cases, whereas 2 fistulae could only be detected by indirect signs. Furthermore, CT showed a larger extent of the fistulous tract in 5 patients and revealed complications such as inflammatory mass, abscess or osteomyelitis in 11 cases.


CONCLUSIONS
CT seems to be superior in demonstrating the extent of a fistulous tract and provides valuable information on the surrounding structures.
Institut und Poliklinik für Radiologische Diagnostik, Universität zu Köln.
G
G
Jung
T
T
Krahe
H G
HG
Brochhagen
K
K
Krüger
K
K
Lackner
D000328:Adult; D001983:Bronchial Fistula / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging; D003108:Colonic Diseases / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging; D017577:Cutaneous Fistula / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging; D004937:Esophageal Fistula / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging; D005121:Extremities / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging; D005260:Female; D005402:Fistula / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging*; D006801:Humans; D007412:Intestinal Fistula / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D009333:Neck / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging; D011446:Prospective Studies; D011860:Radiography, Abdominal; D013902:Radiography, Thoracic; D012006:Rectovaginal Fistula / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging; D014057:Tomography, X-Ray Computed
Stellenwert der Computertomogrpahie in der Diagnostik von Fisteln.