Error count of radiopaque markers in colonic segmental transit time study

The objective of our study was to evaluate the feasibility and efficacy of a radiologic technique in increasing colon visibility in colonic transit time studies. Three radiologists counted segmental colonic radiopaque markers in two patient groups, based on classic criteria in the first group and also on a colonic barium trace in the second. Agreement between marker counts was assessed using method comparison analysis.

With the barium trace technique, the anatomic conspicuity of colonic segments is improved, a correct segmental marker count can be obtained, and colonic inertia can be more easily distinguished from distal constipation.