Research Journal of Medical Sciences
ISSN: Online 1993-6095ISSN: Print 1815-9346
Abstract
Acute pancreatitis is a sudden inflammation of the pancreas that can range from mild discomfort to life‐threatening illness. Accurate and timely diagnosis is crucial for effective management. While clinical and biochemical parameters play a role, imaging modalities such as ultrasonography (US) and computed tomography (CT) are essential for diagnosis and assessment. This study aims to evaluate and compare the effectiveness of US and CT in diagnosing acute pancreatitis and understanding their respective advantages and limitations. This observational study was conducted over 18 months in the Department of Radiodiagnosis at a tertiary care hospital. The study included 45 patients diagnosed with acute pancreatitis. Initial evaluation was performed using a Samsung HS 40 ultrasonography machine, followed by CT scans using a Philips MX 16‐slice CT scanner. The pancreas was assessed for size, echogenicity, ductal changes, calcifications, focal lesions, and extra pancreatic findings. Data were analyzed using SPSS 22.0 software to determine the sensitivity, specificity, and diagnostic accuracy of both imaging modalities. The study comprised 45 patients with acute pancreatitis, predominantly young adults (mean age 41 years) with a male predominance (84.4%). Alcoholism was the leading cause (51.1%), followed by idiopathic (28.9%) and gallstones (17.8%). Ultrasonography visualized the pancreas in 64.4% of cases, with common findings including a bulky pancreas (55.2%), hypoechoic echogenicity (44.8%) and ascites (37.7%). In contrast, CT visualized the pancreas in all cases, identifying a bulky pancreas (51.1%), fluid collections (26.7%), and exudates (73.3%). The CT severity index (CTSI) classified 31.1% as mild, 42.2% as moderate, and 26.7% as severe, with a mortality rate of 16.7% in the severe category. Ultrasonography had a sensitivity of 64%, dropping to 37.8% overall, while CT had a sensitivity of 96%. Ultrasonography is a valuable initial imaging modality for acute pancreatitis due to its non‐invasive nature, cost‐effectiveness and availability. However, CT provides a more detailed and accurate assessment, essential for diagnosing and managing acute pancreatitis. The complementary use of both imaging modalities enhances diagnostic accuracy, guides appropriate treatment strategies, and improves patient outcomes.
How to cite this article:
Ankit Patel and Shaikh Faizan Ahmed Zahidur Rehman. Evaluating Acute Pancreatitis: Comparative Analysis of Ultrasonography and CT Imaging Modalities.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.36478/10.36478/makrjms.2023.12.555.560
URL: https://www.makhillpublications.co/view-article/1815-9346/10.36478/makrjms.2023.12.555.560