Value of small bowel enema in incomplete intestinal obstruction

The usefulness of small bowel enema X-ray examination was evaluated in 11 patients in whom a provisional diagnosis of incomplete small bowel obstruction was made. Dilute barium was introduced through a nasojejunal tube. In one patient intubation of the jejunum was unsuccessful. In six patients the suspected obstruction was confirmed and information obtained about the site of obstruction. The small bowel enema X-ray examination was normal in three patients and subsequent clinical outcome was uneventful. In one patient, with normal findings on small bowel enema X-ray examination, acute obstruction developed after two days, necessitating operation. Small bowel enema X-ray examination appears a worthwhile adjuvant to clinical assessment but decisions for operative intervention still need to be based on clinical evaluation of patients.