title: Utilization patterns of multidetector computed tomography in elective and emergency conditions: indications, exposure risk, and diagnostic gain.
abstract: Computed tomography (CT) seems to be a favorable method in diagnostic workup of patients. Multidetector (MD) CT technology has allowed joining of a rapid time examination to dynamic study after intravenous contrast medium administration; wide information regarding the status of the vessels as well as of the parenchymal organs could be received from the image analysis. Is the destiny of the MDCT same as that of conventional plain radiograph in the past: a relatively "simple and rapid" method to make diagnosis? This review will focus on the use of MDCT considering questions related to radiation dose and diagnostic gain.
authors.affiliation: Department of Diagnostic Imaging, A. Cardarelli Hospital, Naples, Italy. stefromano@libero.it
authors.forename: Stefania
authors.initials: S
authors.lastname: Romano
authors.forename: Luigia
authors.initials: L
authors.lastname: Romano
mesh_terms: D004630:Emergencies; D006801:Humans; D014057:Tomography, X-Ray Computed / Q000379:methods*