Related Experiment Videos
Diverticulitis: an evaluation by computed tomography and contrast enema
1Department of Radiology, University of Rochester Medical Center, New York.
The American Journal of Gastroenterology
|October 1, 1991
Summary
Contrast enema and computed tomography (CT) are valuable for diagnosing acute diverticulitis. CT showed a higher accuracy in identifying diverticulitis in patients requiring surgery.
Area of Science:
- Radiology
- Gastroenterology
- Surgical Diagnostics
Background:
- Acute diverticulitis is a common condition requiring accurate diagnosis.
- Imaging plays a crucial role in differentiating surgical and medical management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the diagnostic accuracy of contrast enema and computed tomography (CT) in acute diverticulitis.
- To assess the impact of these imaging modalities on surgical decision-making.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of 228 patients with acute diverticulitis.
- Comparison of contrast enema and CT findings with surgical outcomes.
- Assessment of imaging influence on treatment decisions.
Main Results:
- Contrast enema and CT were performed in 228 patients, with 49% requiring surgery.
- In the surgical group, contrast enema detected diverticulitis in 90% and CT in 69%.
- Imaging influenced surgical decisions in 17% (contrast enema) and 6% (CT).
Conclusions:
- Both contrast enema and CT are effective in diagnosing acute diverticulitis.
- Contrast enema demonstrated higher sensitivity in the surgical cohort.
- Imaging modalities guide management but require careful interpretation, especially in medically treated patients.