Multi-slice spiral CT 3D reconstruction of extrahepatic feeding arteries in hepatocellular carcinoma:its clinical applications / 介入放射学杂志

ABSTRACT

Objective To discuss the feasibility of displaying the extrahepatic feeding arteries in hepatocellular carcinoma with the help of multi-slice spiral CT 3D reconstruction and to assess the clinical value of this technique. Methods Triple-phase enhanced CT scanning with a 64-slice spiral CT scanner was performed in 89 patients with advanced primary hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Three-dimensional reconstruction techniques,including maximum intensity projection (MIP) and volume rendering (VR),with arterial phase images,were used to display the origination and course of both the intrahepatic and extrahepatic supplying arteries of HCC. The results were compared with the angiographic findings. Results Of 59 cases with massive type HCC,extrahepatic supplying arteries were found in 33. In 21 cases of diffuse type HCC four showed extrahepatic supplying arteries,and in nine cases of nodular type HCC only one had extra-hepatic supplying arteries. The HCC could get their extrahepatic blood supply via eight pathways. A total of 44 extrahepatic supplying arteries were detected,and 19 anomalously originated hepatic arteries were found. Conclusion The extrahepatic supplying arteries in hepatocellular carcinoma are common findings and their supplying pattern are extremely varied,which may be associated with the type and location of the tumors. Three-dimensional reconstruction technique with the help of triple-phase enhanced CT scanning on a 64-slice spiral CT scanner can provide excellent images as vivid and ideal as angiography can afford. Therefore,the times of angiography examination,the use of contrast media as well as the dose of radiation to both the patients and the physicians can be reduced as far as possible. The detailed information about extrahepatic blood supply is very useful for improving the therapeutic result of HCC.