Imaging of the GI tract

Question 1

What are the methods of imaging

Answer 1

• Conventional (Xray and fluoroscopy)
• Ultrasound
• CT
• MRI

Question 2

How does gas appear in the small intestine

Answer 2

-Central, thin folds going across entire circumference

Question 3

How does gas appear in the large intestine

Answer 3

• Periphery

- Thicker and incomplete folds

Question 4

How does a small intestine obstruction appear

Answer 4

• Distended
• Multiple central fluid levels
• Less gas or no gas in large intestine

Question 5

What is the best way to image gall stones

Answer 5

Ultrasound (as only around 15% calcified enough to be seen on plain x-ray)

Question 6

Pros of CT

Answer 6

• Can pick up cancer early

- Allows cross sectional evaluation (unlike Xray)

Question 7

Cons of CT

Answer 7

High radiation level

Question 8

Pros of MRI

Answer 8

• No radiation
• Cross sectional imaging
• Better soft tissue resolution than CT
• Can be done in children and pregnant women after first trimester

Question 9

Cons of MRI

Answer 9

• Availability
• TAkes more time
• Not safe for some patients
• Claustrophobic