HELICAL CT APPLICATIONS IN THE THORAX AND ABDOMEN

In the last several years, CT has evolved rapidly into an important to ol in evaluation of complex disease processes, while use of intravenou s pyelography, barium studies, invasive diagnostic angiography, and so me plain-film radiography has undergone a corresponding decline.(19) T he inherent high sensitivity of optimal-quality CT and widespread avai lability of the technique probably account for much of the increase in use. The relationship between clinicians and radiologists also has ex perienced dramatic changes in recent years. In today's healthcare clim ate, referring physicians probably should make better use of radiologi sts' triage skills early in the consultation process, in addition tu s eeking their expertise in interpreting the final images. Nurturing a t eam approach between radiologist and primary care physician by increas ing communication is sure to enhance patient care.