title: The multifaceted role of radiology in small bowel obstruction.
abstract: Small bowel obstruction is a common clinical condition, often presenting with signs and symptoms similar to those seen in other acute abdominal disorders. The diagnosis and treatment of this dynamic process continues to evolve. The imaging approach in the work-up of patients with known or suspected small bowel obstruction and the timing of surgical intervention in this disease have undergone considerable changes over the past two decades. This article examines the changes related to the use of imaging technology in the diagnosis and management of patients with small bowel obstruction. The meaning of frequently used but poorly defined terms in describing intestinal obstruction is clarified and illustrated.
authors: Department of Radiology, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN 46202-5257, USA.
authors: Kumaresan
authors: K
authors: Sandrasegaran
authors: Dean D T
authors: DD
authors: Maglinte
authors: Thomas J
authors: TJ
authors: Howard
authors: Frederick M
authors: FM
authors: Kelvin
authors: John C
authors: JC
authors: Lappas
mesh_terms: D003287:Contrast Media; D003937:Diagnosis, Differential; D003952:Diagnostic Imaging; D006801:Humans; D007415:Intestinal Obstruction / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000209:etiology / Q000628:therapy; D007421:Intestine, Small; D008279:Magnetic Resonance Imaging / Q000379:methods; D011860:Radiography, Abdominal; D014057:Tomography, X-Ray Computed / Q000379:methods
chemical_list: D003287:Contrast Media