CT enterography for Crohn's disease: optimal technique and imaging issues

Area of Science:

• Radiology
• Gastroenterology
• Medical Imaging

Background:

• CT enterography (CTE) is a standard imaging modality for evaluating Crohn's disease.
• Achieving diagnostic quality in CTE necessitates adherence to specific technical protocols.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide a comprehensive review of techniques for optimizing CT enterography in Crohn's disease patients.
• To guide the establishment and execution of effective CTE programs for accurate disease assessment.

Main Methods:

• Review of established protocols and best practices for CTE acquisition.
• Discussion of patient preparation, oral and intravenous contrast administration, and radiation dose reduction.
• Exploration of image reconstruction, interpretation, and reporting standards.

Main Results:

• Detailed examination of workflow, contrast agents, and injection techniques for optimal CTE.
• Strategies for radiation dose reduction using iterative reconstruction are presented.
• Comparison of CTE with alternative imaging modalities like MRE and barium fluoroscopy.

Conclusions:

• Standardized protocols and meticulous technique are crucial for high-quality CTE in Crohn's disease.
• Optimization of CTE parameters can enhance diagnostic accuracy and patient safety.
• This review provides a framework for improving CTE examinations and reporting for Crohn's disease management.