title: Value of radiopaque markers in identifying partial small bowel obstruction.
abstract: Confirming partial small bowel obstruction is often a diagnostic challenge. In this case report, 4-mm solid radiopaque markers were used in 4 patients to show partial small bowel obstruction. Results of enteroclysis were normal in 2 of the 4 patients, and the markers were used to challenge suspected partial obstruction. The markers coalesced in the region of the partial obstruction, which was confirmed at surgery. Enteroclysis is the examination of choice in the diagnosis of partial small bowel obstruction. However, examinations with false-negative results can occur, particularly with adhesive and/or intermittent obstructions. The use of radiopaque markers in these cases proved an effective and useful method of establishing the diagnosis of partial small bowel obstruction, particularly in the 2 cases in which enteroclysis results were normal. Prospective studies are needed to establish the feasibility of this novel technique.
authors.affiliation: Department of Internal Medicine, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, USA.
authors.forename: P A
authors.initials: PA
authors.lastname: Johnson
authors.forename: P B
authors.initials: PB
authors.lastname: Miner
authors.forename: D
authors.initials: D
authors.lastname: Geier
authors.forename: L A
authors.initials: LA
authors.lastname: Harrison
mesh_terms: D000293:Adolescent; D000368:Aged; D003287:Contrast Media; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007415:Intestinal Obstruction / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging*; D007421:Intestine, Small / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging*; D008297:Male; D008863:Microspheres; D011859:Radiography
chemical_list: D003287:Contrast Media