Pseudolesions of the liver possibly caused by focal rib compression: analysis based on hemodynamic change

AJR Am J Roentgenol. 1999 Mar;172(3):645-9. doi: 10.2214/ajr.172.3.10063852.

Abstract

Objective: The purpose of this study is to show and analyze the CT appearance of pseudolesions of the liver caused by rib compression and to discuss the possible mechanism on the basis of findings of incremental dynamic CT, CT during arterial portography, and CT hepatic arteriography.

Conclusion: Focal compression of the liver caused by curved ribs can cause transient focal diminishment of portal venous perfusion without significantly altering hepatic arterial perfusion. Such diminishment may be observed as low-density areas on the early phase of incremental dynamic CT.

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Artifacts
  • Constriction, Pathologic / diagnostic imaging
  • Contrast Media
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Iopamidol
  • Liver / blood supply
  • Liver / diagnostic imaging*
  • Liver Circulation / physiology
  • Liver Neoplasms / diagnostic imaging
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Portal System / diagnostic imaging
  • Portal System / physiology
  • Portography
  • Ribs*
  • Tomography, X-Ray Computed

Substances

  • Contrast Media
  • Iopamidol