ABSTRACT
Abdominal CT with intravenous contrast is an excellent modality for evaluation of intraabdominal injuries in the blunt trauma population (discussed more thoroughly elsewhere in this book).(7, 8) Recent advances in multidetector CT have increased
the speed and quality of imaging.(9) One concern in the use of CT is the increased risk of nephropathy from the use of intravenous contrast agents. Although this concern should not delay a scan needed for the diagnosis of potentially life-threatening injuries, the potential for this complication should be remembered by the clinical care team. The risk-benefit ratio (as well as the feasibility) postscan of hydration and N-acetylcysteine should be considered.(10-12)
Obese: Body habitus may contribute to a technically challenging FAST exam; however, there are no specific contraindications to use in this population. Many CT scanners have an upper weight limit, which may prevent use of CT scan in the superobese.
