A preoperative evaluation for neo-infantile liver tumors using a three-dimensional reconstruction of multidetector row CT.

Multidetector row CT (MDCT), which has been used extensively in adult patients, has also recently been used for the evaluation of children. As pediatric surgeons, we preoperatively examined 10 cases of liver tumors by MDCT and performed three-dimensional reconstruction and a volumetric analysis. Instead of angiography, which requires general anesthesia in children, this method can provide a fine image of the anatomy between the tumor and the vessels, as well as identify the presence of any anomalous vascular branches. It also makes it possible to calculate the residual liver volume for the proposed operation and to determine the optimal cut line. However, there are still certain problems associated with pediatric cases, including the determination of the appropriate volume of contrast medium, the occurrence of allergic reactions to the contrast medium, and the timing of enhancement. The resolution of the specific problems in the pediatric application of MDCT, and the development of a more effective procedure is thus required.