Radiologic examination of the small intestine: review of 402 cases and discussion of indications and methods

An analysis of the records of 300 patients who had had 370 small-bowel radiologic examinations and a subsequent 102 patients examined by fluoroscopy and enteroclysis suggests that enteroclysis (small-bowel enema) is extremely valuable in the radiologic evaluation of small intestinal disease. Our results suggest that best results are obtained if the radiologist spends adequate time to participate in and observe the studies carefully. We believe that the fluoroscopic observation of low-density barium passing through distended small bowel gives a much clearer picture of its status than routine follow-through examinations. Disagreement exists concerning the choice of Sellink's method, using dilute barium, and Herlinger's technique, using a somewhat denser barium followed by methylcellulose. We prefer the latter. Enteroclysis probably should not be done in the presence of a high small-bowel obstruction because of the danger of reflux and aspiration. If intubation is unsuccessful, an oral study should be postponed until the effects of the topical anesthesia disappear. A controlled prospective study of the accuracy of fluoroscopic enteroclysis versus a good detailed independent follow-through examination is needed.