The past few years have witnessed a massive explosion in clinical applications for computed tomography (CT) as a result of exponential advances in technology. Most clinical practitioners have a limited understanding of the complexities and dynamics of modern CT, and even many radiologists are unable to keep up with the rapid evolution in refinements. In this article, Dr Rappaport summarizes some of the most recent advances in use of helical, or spiral, CT to diagnose diseases of the thorax and abdomen.