Is this diastasis? Does anyone know if these images indicate ab separation? (Photos)

Despite being able to confirm with imaging rectus diastasis can be diagnosed on examination. The images you have above do not show sufficient views to answer your question. My advice is to go to a board certified plastic surgeon who can sit down with you, perform an exam and review imaging as needed.

Dear Helpful5906,
it is impossible to tell you is there diastasis recti without looking at the whole CT scan and not only two slices. Radiologists can describe the findings in detail.
Daniel Barrett, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Hi Helpful5906,
I think you're looking for a radiologist. Having said that a CT scan may not be helpful in the determination of a diastasis or separation of your abdominal wall muscles. It is a great study and provides a wealth of information but it is performed while lying down so there is no pressure on the abdominal wall....so it could miss a subtle widening of the rectus (abdominal wall) muscles. Also, the images you included do not show the area in question but other images may be more helpful. If you are worried about a DR then an ultrasound exam in the standing position would likely be the most helpful test....aside from a good physical exam! I recommend finding a surgeon that does a lot of abdominoplasties. They will perform a good physical exam and evaluate your cosmetic needs. I hope this helps! Good luck.

The CT images you provided are merely a snapshot of the scout film (first two pictures), image of the hear and lung, and another which demonstrates a side view - none of which will demonstrate the presence of a diastasis recti. I'd recommend that you either reach out to your surgeon directly, or the imaging facility that obtained the images. Often times, they will have a radiologist review the images and provide a detailed report (to your surgeon). Overall, however, diastasis recti presence is often times a clinical diagnosis which does not require imaging. I'd be happy to review this with you. Best, Dr. Satey.

It is difficult to fully assess where the bulge is in your abdomen based on those photos. Also, based on the CT scan, the single cut that you provided does not demonstrate any reason for the bulge in your abdomen. I’m sorry to hear that you’re having some difficulty getting this evaluated with your surgeon, however, most surgeons do know how to read these, and should be able to provide you with information regarding the report. However, sometimes there’s a bulge that is not seen on CT scan, but rather on physical exam. It’s important that you discuss your goals as well as what you are experiencing with your board-certified plastic surgeon. I hope that you can find the results that you desire. We are happy to help in any way we can.

I'm sorry that you are having issues getting the results from your CT scan. Typically the radiologist writes a report of the findings after the scan is completed and forwards this report to the ordering physician. If you can't find a way to get the information from your physician you may try the facility where the exam was completed and talk to the radiologist.