Computerized tomography in rheumatology

An attempt is made to outline the significance for rheumatology of this imaging process yielding cross-sectional pictures free of superpositions. Some of the most important points are: Primary use of CT to display joints and sceletal regions which are insufficiently represented by conventional radiological methods. Application of CT after exhaustion of conventional methodology which did not give a satisfactory result. Cross-sectional pictures obtained by CT, together with conventional radiological techniques, allow a more precise preoperative diagnosis and thus improve the plans for surgical proceedings. CT as a method to answer scientific questions. Centers of rheumatology need their own CT apparatus to give specific radiological answers to specific rheumatological questions. (orig./MG)