CT scan of pancreas - Pancreatic mass surgical planning - correlate clinically- pancreas protocol CT
A CT scan of the pancreas is a common imaging test used to evaluate various conditions, including pancreatic masses. When a pancreatic tail mass is suspected, a CT scan can provide detailed information about the size, location, and characteristics of the mass, aiding in diagnosis and treatment planning.
For cystic lesions in the pancreatic tail that may be observed on a pancreas protocol CT scan, the following points are important to assess:
Size and shape: The CT scan will measure the size of the cystic lesion and determine its shape. Cysts can range in size from small to large, and their shape can be round, oval, or irregular.
Fluid content: The cystic lesion may contain fluid. The appearance of the fluid can vary, such as being clear, serous, mucinous, or even containing debris.
Wall thickness: The CT scan can help evaluate the thickness of the cyst wall. Thicker walls may suggest certain types of cysts, such as mucinous cystic neoplasms.
Internal features: The scan may reveal internal characteristics of the cystic lesion, such as septations (dividing walls), calcifications (mineral deposits), or solid components. These features can help differentiate various types of cysts.
Surrounding structures: The CT scan can assess if the cystic lesion is causing any compression or displacement of nearby structures, such as the pancreatic duct, blood vessels, or other organs.
It's important to note that cystic lesions in the pancreas can have various causes, ranging from benign cysts (such as pseudocysts) to potentially malignant cystic neoplasms (such as intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasms or mucinous cystic neoplasms). Further diagnostic tests or evaluations, such as additional imaging studies, laboratory tests, or even a biopsy, may be required to determine the nature of the cystic lesion and guide appropriate management.
It is important to assess the operability for patient on the CT console with the radiologist to plan the surgery. This patient underwent spleen and splenic vessel preserving distal pancreatectomy for this lesion.