Errors in the radiological evaluation of the alimentary tract: part II

Semin Ultrasound CT MR. 2012 Aug;33(4):308-17. doi: 10.1053/j.sult.2012.01.016.

Abstract

Plain abdominal radiography and computed tomographic (CT) enteroclysis are 2 essential radiological investigations in the study of gastrointestinal tract. Errors in patient preparation, execution, and interpretation may lead to severe consequences in the diagnosis and thus in patient outcome. Abdominal radiography is one of the most frequently requested radiographic examinations, and has an established role in the assessment of the acute abdomen. CT enteroclysis has revolutionized the assessment of small-bowel pathology, especially in patients with inflammatory bowel. The purpose of this article is to describe the pitfalls in the execution and interpretation of plain abdominal film and CT enteroclysis.

MeSH terms

  • Abdomen, Acute / diagnostic imaging*
  • Diagnostic Errors / prevention & control*
  • Humans
  • Intestinal Diseases / diagnostic imaging*
  • Radiographic Image Enhancement / methods*
  • Tomography, X-Ray Computed / methods*