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Contrast radiography in small intestinal obstruction, a valuable diagnostic tool?
L Enochsson1, M Runold, G Fenyö
1Department of Surgery, Stockholm Söder Hospital, Sweden. Lars@Enochsson.com
The European Journal of Surgery = Acta Chirurgica
|March 27, 2001
Summary
Plain abdominal radiographs can help predict the success of contrast studies for small intestinal obstruction. Contrast radiography is a safe and potentially therapeutic option for patients with this condition.
Area of Science:
- Radiology
- Gastroenterology
- Abdominal Imaging
Background:
- Small intestinal obstruction is a common surgical emergency.
- Accurate diagnosis is crucial for timely intervention.
- Plain abdominal radiographs and contrast studies are key diagnostic tools.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the diagnostic utility of plain abdominal radiographs.
- To assess the therapeutic potential of contrast radiography in small intestinal obstruction.
- To correlate radiographic findings with contrast study outcomes.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of 2357 plain abdominal radiographic cases.
- Evaluation of plain films for signs of small intestinal obstruction.
- Measurement of contrast medium transit time to the caecum and success rate.
Main Results:
- 14% of plain films showed small intestinal obstruction, 18% intermediate, and 68% were normal.
- Contrast medium reached the colon in 67% of obstructed cases.
- Transit time to the colon was significantly longer in obstructed groups (5.5-8.9 hours) compared to normal (3.4 hours).
Conclusions:
- Plain abdominal radiographs appear to predict the success of contrast follow-through examinations.
- Contrast radiography is a safe procedure for small intestinal obstruction.
- Contrast radiography may offer therapeutic benefits in managing small intestinal obstruction.