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The faeces sign. A CT finding in small-bowel obstruction
1Department of Radiological Sciences, University Federico II, Naples, Italy.
Der Radiologe
|May 1, 1997
Summary
The faeces sign, a computed tomography (CT) finding, appears in small-bowel obstruction. This study found it uncommon but specific for diagnosing obstruction, particularly subacute cases.
Area of Science:
- Radiology
- Gastroenterology
- Abdominal Imaging
Background:
- The faeces sign is a novel computed tomography (CT) finding associated with small-bowel obstruction.
- It presents as mottled, faeces-like intraluminal content in dilated bowel loops proximal to an obstruction.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the prevalence, significance, and diagnostic utility of the faeces sign in small-bowel obstruction.
- To assess its specificity and value as an accessory CT feature.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of 94 consecutive small-intestine obstruction cases diagnosed via CT over six years.
- Analysis of the presence, location, and clinical context of the faeces sign.
Main Results:
- The faeces sign was identified in 7 cases (7.4%), exclusively in the ileum.
- It was predominantly associated with simple, progressive obstruction (6/7 cases), with one instance of strangulation.
- The sign was observed in patients with subacute obstruction.
Conclusions:
- The faeces sign is an uncommon but specific indicator in CT for small-bowel obstruction.
- It is particularly useful in identifying subacute obstructions and serves as a valuable accessory diagnostic feature.