Comparative Evaluation of Ultrasonography and Computed Tomography in the Diagnosis of Abdominal Pathologies
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Abstract
Background: Abdominal pathologies such as appendicitis, hepatobiliary disease, renal calculi, and bowel obstruction are major causes of acute abdominal pain worldwide. Timely and accurate imaging-based diagnosis plays a vital role in reducing morbidity and guiding clinical management. Ultrasonography (USG) and Computed Tomography (CT) are among the most frequently utilized modalities, each with specific advantages and limitations. Objective: To compare the diagnostic accuracy of USG and CT in detecting common abdominal pathologies in a tertiary care center, and to assess their complementary roles in clinical decision-making. Materials and Methods: A prospective observational study was conducted involving 200 patients with suspected abdominal pathology. All participants underwent both USG and contrast-enhanced CT within 48 hours. Diagnostic performance parameters (sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value [PPV], negative predictive value [NPV], and overall accuracy) were determined using surgical, endoscopic, or laboratory confirmation as the gold standard. Results: CT demonstrated superior overall diagnostic accuracy (95%) compared to USG (83%). USG was particularly reliable for hepatobiliary and renal conditions, while CT was markedly more accurate for bowel obstruction and intra-abdominal masses. Conclusion: CT remains the gold standard for diagnosing complex abdominal conditions, but USG serves as an essential first-line imaging modality due to its safety, accessibility, and cost-effectiveness. A stepwise diagnostic approach using both modalities ensures optimal patient care.
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Copyright (c) 2025 Dr Syed Sajad Ahmad, Dr Asma Gulzar, Dr Fiza Amin
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License.
Creative Commons License All articles published in Annals of Medicine and Medical Sciences are licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License.
Dr Syed Sajad Ahmad, Department of Radiology, Government Medical College Baramulla, J&K, India
Department of Radiology, Government Medical College Baramulla, J&K, India
Dr Asma Gulzar, Department of Radiology, Government Medical College Handwara, J&K, India.
Department of Radiology, Government Medical College Handwara, J&K, India.
Dr Fiza Amin, Department of Gynaecology & Obstetrics, Ramzaan Hospital, Gogji Bagh, Srinagar, J&K, India.
Department of Gynaecology & Obstetrics, Ramzaan Hospital, Gogji Bagh, Srinagar, J&K, India.
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