The value of prone imaging in CT pneumocolon

AIM: To evaluate the value of prone imaging in computed tomography pneumoco lon. MATERIALS AND METHODS: In the U,K., patients commonly undergo computed tomo graphy (CT) pneumocolon in the supine position alone. A prospective analysi s of both supine and prone CT images was performed, The degree of distensio n and the presence/absence of fluid/faecal residue were documented. RESULTS: Twenty-five patients were examined in total. In all cases, all fiv e segments of the colon were well visualized on combined assessment of supi ne/prone images, Diagnostic distension was obtained in all five segments of the bowel in 69% of cases in the prone position, but in only 24% of patien ts in the supine position. The rectum and sigmoid colon were well distended in 100 and 88%, respectively, on prone CT, but in only 58 and 35% of cases , respectively, on supine CT. Problems encountered by fluid/faecal residue were eliminated on prone CT. CONCLUSION: Adjunctive prone pelvic CT should be performed in all patients undergoing CT pneumocolon unless the supine images can be fully reviewed an d shown to be satisfactory before the patient leaves the CT department. If a single positional sequence is to be performed, then prone CT is the posit ion of choice. Yong, A. A. et al. (2000). Clinical Radiology 55, 959-963. ( C) 2000 The Royal College of Radiologists.