CT enterography: principles, technique and utility in Crohn's disease

Area of Science:

• Radiology
• Gastroenterology
• Medical Imaging

Background:

• Conventional computed tomography (CT) has limitations in evaluating the small bowel.
• Small bowel diseases, such as Crohn's disease, require specialized imaging techniques for accurate diagnosis.
• CT enterography offers an advanced approach to visualize the small bowel.

Purpose of the Study:

• To discuss the essential principles of CT enterography.
• To highlight the utility of CT enterography in evaluating small bowel pathology.
• To focus on the application of CT enterography in diagnosing Crohn's disease.

Main Methods:

• Utilizes multidetector scanners for high spatial and temporal resolution.
• Employs multiplanar reconstructions for comprehensive visualization.
• Administers large volumes of enteric contrast for optimal bowel distension.

Main Results:

• CT enterography provides detailed imaging of the small bowel wall and lumen.
• The technique allows for the detection and characterization of inflammatory changes associated with Crohn's disease.
• Bowel distension achieved with contrast enhances the visibility of mucosal irregularities and submucosal disease.

Conclusions:

• CT enterography is a highly effective imaging technique for the small bowel.
• It is particularly useful in the assessment and diagnosis of Crohn's disease.
• This modified CT technique represents a significant advancement in small bowel imaging.