Computed tomographic enteroclysis with air and virtual enteroscopy: protocol and feasibility for small bowel...

Area of Science:

• Gastrointestinal Radiology
• Medical Imaging Techniques
• Diagnostic Procedures

Background:

• Computed tomographic enteroclysis (CTE) is an imaging modality for the small bowel.
• Air has been explored as a potential contrast agent for CTE.
• Optimizing CTE protocols is crucial for accurate diagnosis.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe an optimized protocol for computed tomographic enteroclysis using air.
• To assess the early clinical performance of air-contrast CTE.
• To evaluate the efficacy of air-contrast CTE in depicting the whole small bowel.

Main Methods:

• Thirty-one air-contrast CTE examinations were performed in 30 patients.
• Air volume and intra-intestinal pressure were monitored.
• Successful whole small bowel depiction rates were calculated for patients without stenosis.
• Findings were confirmed by other imaging, surgical, or histopathological data.

Main Results:

• Whole small bowel depiction was achieved in 84.2% of cases without stenosis.
• Air volume averaged 2925 ± 686 ml with a pressure of 24.5 ± 7.1 cm H₂O.
• Air-contrast CTE effectively detected strictures (Crohn's disease, lymphoma, carcinoma), Meckel's diverticulum, and excluded obstructive ileus.

Conclusions:

• Air-contrast CTE demonstrates potential for complete small bowel visualization.
• This technique provides valuable information for small bowel lesions.
• Air-contrast CTE complements other diagnostic imaging methods.