ObjectiveTo recognize the features of the ligamentum teres hepatic (LTH) in multi-slice spiral CT, and to preliminarily explore its clinical value.
MethodsA total of 130 patients without liver disease underwent abdominal scanning with a 16-slice spiral CT scanner. LTHs, as focused points, were observed by using postprocessing techniques such as multi-planar reformation (MPR), slab maximum intensity projection (slab-MIP) and slab volume rendering (slab-VR).
ResultsThe LTH was detected by multi-slice spiral CT in 90.8%(118/130). On these oblique-sagittal MPR, slab-MIP and slab-VR images, LTH presented as slightly high density smooth cord-like structure in accordance with its anatomical morphology and position. The mean diameter of fissure portion of normal LTH was (5.44±0.96) mm (range 3.2-7.2 mm) measured at its middle region, and that of free portion of normal LTH was (3.43±0.91) mm (range 1.6-6.0 mm).
ConclusionsMulti-slice spiral CT demonstrates the LTH clearly, and has a potential to evaluate the LTH before abdominal operation in which the LTH is to be used as an autogenous repair material.