EVALUATING THE CLINICAL IMPACT OF ABDOMINAL CT SCANS ON DIAGNOSTIC FINDINGS, SURGICAL OUTCOMES, AND MANAGEMENT PATHWAYS IN EMERGENCY PATIENTS

Abstract

Background: Computed tomography (CT) is a critical diagnostic tool in the evaluation of abdominal trauma and acute abdominal presentations. Its findings directly influence clinical decision-making and surgical planning. This study aimed to assess the association between CT scan categories, abdominal findings, laparotomy outcomes, and subsequent management decisions.

Methods: A total of 270 patients who underwent abdominal CT imaging were evaluated. Demographic data, clinical indications, CT scan categories, abdominal findings, management outcomes, and laparotomy results were analyzed. Chi-square tests were applied to assess associations, with significance set at p < 0.05.

Results: The majority of patients were male (86.7%), and the most common age group was 21–30 years (28.1%). Solid organ injury was the most prevalent CT finding (71.9%), followed by hemoperitoneum (8.9%). A significant association was found between CT categories and abdominal findings (χ² = 70.874, p = .000), as well as management outcomes (χ² = 123.79, p = .000). Patients with normal CT scans were predominantly discharged (91.3%) with no positive abdominal or surgical findings. In contrast, solid organ injury and hemoperitoneum were strongly linked with positive abdominal pathology and higher rates of surgical intervention. Laparotomy outcomes aligned closely with CT findings, with normal scans showing 100% negative results, while positive CT categories revealed a spectrum of confirmed intra-abdominal injuries.

Conclusion: CT imaging demonstrated high diagnostic reliability in detecting abdominal injuries and guiding appropriate management. Strong correlations between scan findings, clinical outcomes, and laparotomy results support its role as an essential tool in emergency abdominal evaluation.