Small bowel.
MR imaging, using modern equipment and a rigorous technical approach, can offer detailed morphologic information and functional data on the small bowel. The optimal study technique is debatable, although the oral administration of contrast material as a first-line approach is less expensive, faster, easier to perform, and better tolerated by patients. MR enteroclysis might be reserved for selected cases as a second-line study. The major clinical indication is the evaluation of patients who have suspected or known Crohn's disease. The absence of ionizing radiation, considering the young age of most of the patients and the frequency of the examinations, is an important advantage over other techniques (radiograph and CT enteroclysis).
Laghi
Andrea
A
Department of Radiological Sciences, University of Rome La Sapienza, Polo Didattico Pontino - I.C.O.T., Latina, Via Franco Faggiana 34, 04100 Latina, Italy. andrea.laghi@uniroma1.it
Paolantonio
Pasquale
P
Passariello
Roberto
R
D003287:Contrast Media; D003424:Crohn Disease / Q000175:diagnosis; D006801:Humans; D007089:Image Enhancement / Q000379:methods; D007091:Image Processing, Computer-Assisted / Q000379:methods; D007410:Intestinal Diseases / Q000175:diagnosis*; D007421:Intestine, Small / Q000473:pathology*; D008279:Magnetic Resonance Imaging / Q000379:methods*
D003287:Contrast Media