Arterial phase CT for the detection of splenic injuries in blunt trauma: would it improve clinical outcomes?

ObjectiveTo determine if the addition of an arterial phase abdominal computed tomography (CT) improves clinical outcomes in patients with blunt splenic injuries.MethodsRetrospective review of patients who underwent CT of the abdomen revealing splenic injuries. Clinical management in these patients was determined.ResultsFifty-one of three thousand five hundred twenty-five patients had splenic injuries. Twenty-five patients underwent nonsurgical management, and 3 failed. The theoretical additional arterial phase resulted in a 62% increase in mean effective dose compared to the portal venous phase alone.ConclusionsRoutine use of arterial phase CT in blunt trauma patients may not be warranted as there is minimal improvement in outcomes.