RadioGraphics 2008; 28:1967-1982
Maha Torabi, MD , Keyanoosh Hosseinzadeh, MD , Michael P. Federle, MD
The unique dual blood supply of the liver (75% portal venous, 25% hepatic arterial) makes multiphase helical computed tomography (CT) a highly suitable technique for hepatic evaluation with imaging in two (arterial and portal venous) or more phases. Multiphase helical CT has become an important tool in the detection and characteriza¬tion of hepatic tumors. In some situations, hemodynamic changes might mimic neoplastic or inflammatory lesions and evoke diagnos¬tic uncertainty. To confidently identify hepatic conditions such as venous outflow obstruction (Budd-Chiari syndrome), arterioportal shunts, hereditary hemorrhagic telangiectasia (Osier-Weber-Rendu syndrome), peliosis hepatis, passive congestion, and hepatic infarction, radiologists must be familiar with the disease-specific CT appearances and related clinical manifestations.