CT OF APPENDICITIS AND DIVERTICULITIS

Computed tomography (CT) has proved useful in evaluating the gastroint estinal tract because of its inherent ability to visualize the intralu minal, intramural, and extraluminal components of disease processes. C T has made a significant impact in the diagnosis and staging of those gastrointestinal disorders that are associated with perienteric inflam matory extension. Appendicitis and diverticulitis are examples of such diseases, and this article reviews the current role of CT in the diag nosis and management of patients with these conditions.