title: Roentgenographic contrast studies in acute small-bowel obstruction.
abstract: Plain abdominal roentgenograms are usually adequate for the treatment of patients with small-bowel obstruction. There is a select group of patients who may benefit from a more precise diagnosis or by nonoperative therapy for whom contrast roentgenograms may be helpful. Contrast roentgenograms were performed in 68 (21%) of 327 patients who had nondiagnostic abdominal films, atypical histories or findings, or those in whom nonoperative resolution would be highly desirable. Sixty-eight percent of 48 contrast tracers gave useful information, whereas 75% of 24 contrast enemas were helpful. Contrast material passed through a site of obstruction in 34 patients, yet 13 (38%) still required an operation. Contrast material did not pass in 16 patients and only one avoided a surgical procedure. No difference was noted between barium sulfate or water-soluble contrast material or how it was administered.
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007415:Intestinal Obstruction / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging* / Q000628:therapy; D007421:Intestine, Small / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D011859:Radiography