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US of gastrointestinal tract abnormalities with CT correlation
Martin E O'Malley1, Stephanie R Wilson
1Department of Medical Imaging, University Health Network, Mount Sinai Hospital at the University of Toronto, 200 Elizabeth St, Ontario, Canada M5G 2C4. martin.o'malley@uhn.on.ca
Summary
Ultrasonography (US) effectively diagnoses gastrointestinal diseases by identifying bowel wall thickening and reduced peristalsis. This imaging technique is crucial for conditions like appendicitis, Crohn disease, and various cancers.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Medical Imaging
- Abdominal Diagnostics
Background:
- Ultrasonography (US) is a primary imaging modality for abdominal pain and gastrointestinal symptoms.
- Accurate interpretation of intestinal US findings is vital for diagnosis and patient triage.
- Pathological intestinal changes like decreased peristalsis and bowel wall thickening facilitate US evaluation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To highlight the essential role of ultrasonography in diagnosing diverse intestinal diseases.
- To emphasize the importance of recognizing specific US appearances for accurate diagnosis.
- To guide the appropriate triage of patients with gastrointestinal conditions.
Main Methods:
- Utilizing transabdominal and transvaginal ultrasonography to examine the intestine and surrounding structures.
- Analyzing characteristic US findings such as bowel wall thickening and altered peristalsis.
- Correlating US findings with specific infectious, inflammatory, and neoplastic conditions.
Main Results:
- Ultrasonography demonstrates utility in diagnosing infectious and inflammatory conditions including appendicitis, Crohn disease, and diverticulitis.
- US is effective in identifying small bowel obstruction and vasculitis, as well as celiac disease.
- The modality aids in the diagnosis of tumors such as gastric cancer, bowel lymphoma, and colon cancer.
Conclusions:
- Familiarity with US appearances of intestinal diseases allows for specific diagnoses.
- Bowel wall thickening and perienteric tissue changes are key diagnostic indicators on US.
- Ultrasonography is a valuable tool for evaluating a wide spectrum of gastrointestinal pathologies.