The Value of Contrast-enhanced Computed Tomography for the Diagnosis of Intracranial Aneurysms

Plain and contrast-enhanced computed tomography (CE-CT) was evaluated in 48 patients with 55 angiographically confirmed cerebral aneurysms by a method simulating the prospective study to show the real value. The detection rate by CE-CT was 44%. The CE-CT was a helpful diagnostic method, when there was no localizing sign in plain CT. Seven aneurysms out of fifteen (47%) without subarachnoid hemorrhage or other lacalizing signs in plain CT were detected by CE-CT. The CE-CT gave a more specific diagnosis and may be useful, when angiography is deferred. Though other less invasive techniques, like intravenous digital subtraction angiography, provides an alternative method at present, the detection rate of this study would represent one of the standards of less invasive tech niques for the diagnosis of intracranial aneurysms.