[Three-dimensional rectal ultrasonography in inflammatory bowel diseases]

Authors used three-dimensional ultrasound technique in diagnosing chronic inflammatory bowel diseases to demonstrate its activity and complications. For their examinations they adopted high-(7.5 MHz) frequency rectal transducers which made it possible to depict the layers and environment of the intestinal wall. To complete endoscopy, the new method of examination is suitable to state the extent and depth of the process. In cases where they had been unable to find alterations by endoscopic examinations--though the patient had complaints--residual submucoses inflammation could be demonstrated by means of this method. This method has been employed to determine surrounding fluid, lymph node and fistula. The authors support this method by demonstrating cases. In their opinion the three-dimensional ultrasound examination is a suitable new method in the field of diagnostic, therapeutic and operational indications and follow up. The advantage of the method lies in its non-invasive and reproducible quality, its three-dimensional representation, and good resolution and its resolving power as opposed to earlier technique (fistulography) for avoiding infections.