[Mono-contrast distension study of the small intestine. Comparison of conventional small bowel follow-through with enteroclysis].
OBJECTIVE
Development of a new monocontrast examination of the small bowel.


METHODS
The new examination was applied to 20 patients with suspected bowel obstruction or inflammatory bowel disease. A contrast mixture, containing gelatin, a water-soluble contrast medium (Peritrast) and water (GPW-mixture) was given over an intestinal tube. The viscosity of the new contrast mixture was measured by rotation and flow viscosimetry. The diagnostic value and the degree of small bowel distension were determined independently by 3 examiners. By comparison 20 randomized selected small bowel follow-through examinations (SBFT) and 20 small bowel enemas were examined. Special questionnaires were used to determine subjective compatibility and discomfort.


RESULTS
Due to the viscosity of the new contrast medium and the administration over an intestinal tube, a good bowel distension was achieved with the GPW mixture. The bowel distension (p: < 0.01) and the diagnostic value (p: < 0.01) of the new examination in comparison to the SBFT was characterized as being significantly better. In comparison to the small bowel enema, distension was not significantly better (p: 0.31-1.0). The diagnostic value of the small bowel enema was characterized as significantly better by one of the three examiners in comparison to the new monocontrast-distenson examination (p-level < 0.01).


CONCLUSIONS
The monocontrast-distension examination is a potential alternative in patients in whom a small bowel enema with barium sulfate is contraindicated.
Piroth
W
W
Klinik für Radiologische Diagnostik, Universitätsklinikum, RWTH Aachen. piroth@rad.rwth-aachen.de
Haage
P
P
Schmitz-Rode
T
T
Wildberger
J E
JE
Günther
R W
RW
D000006:Abdomen, Acute / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000601:surgery; D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D003287:Contrast Media; D004733:Enema; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D015212:Inflammatory Bowel Diseases / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging* / Q000601:surgery; D007415:Intestinal Obstruction / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging* / Q000601:surgery; D007421:Intestine, Small / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging* / Q000601:surgery; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D011183:Postoperative Complications / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000601:surgery; D011237:Predictive Value of Tests; D011859:Radiography; D014783:Viscosity
D003287:Contrast Media