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Pal P, Mateen MA, Pooja K, Gupta R, Tandan M, Reddy DN. Trans-vaginal ultrasound for rectal visualization in inflammatory bowel disease: A pilot case-control study. Indian J Gastroenterol 2024; 43:267-270. [PMID: 38064130 DOI: 10.1007/s12664-023-01492-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/10/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- Partha Pal
- Medical Gastroenterology, Asian Institute of Gastroenterology, 6-3-661, Somajiguda, Hyderabad, 500 082, India.
| | - Mohammad Abdul Mateen
- Diagnostic Radiology and Ultrasound, Asian Institute of Gastroenterology, 6-3-661, Somajiguda, Hyderabad, 500 082, India
| | - Kanapuram Pooja
- Medical Gastroenterology, Asian Institute of Gastroenterology, 6-3-661, Somajiguda, Hyderabad, 500 082, India
| | - Rajesh Gupta
- Medical Gastroenterology, Asian Institute of Gastroenterology, 6-3-661, Somajiguda, Hyderabad, 500 082, India
| | - Manu Tandan
- Medical Gastroenterology, Asian Institute of Gastroenterology, 6-3-661, Somajiguda, Hyderabad, 500 082, India
| | - D Nageshwar Reddy
- Medical Gastroenterology, Asian Institute of Gastroenterology, 6-3-661, Somajiguda, Hyderabad, 500 082, India
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2
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Carretero C, Bojorquez A, Eliakim R, Lazaridis N. Updates in the diagnosis and management of small-bowel Crohn's disease. Best Pract Res Clin Gastroenterol 2023; 64-65:101855. [PMID: 37652654 DOI: 10.1016/j.bpg.2023.101855] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2023] [Revised: 07/06/2023] [Accepted: 08/01/2023] [Indexed: 09/02/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Cristina Carretero
- Gastroenterology Department, Clínica Universidad de Navarra, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Navarra (IDISNA), Clínica Universidad de Navarra. Pio XII 36, 31004, Pamplona, Spain.
| | - Alejandro Bojorquez
- Gastroenterology Department, Clínica Universidad de Navarra, Clínica Universidad de Navarra. Pio XII 36, 31004, Pamplona, Spain.
| | - Rami Eliakim
- Department of Gastroenterology, Sheba Medical Center, Sackler School of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tek-Aviv, Israel.
| | - Nikolaos Lazaridis
- Royal Free Unit for Endoscopy, The Royal Free Hospital and University College London (UCL) Institute for Liver and Digestive Health, London, United Kingdom; Saint Luke's Hospital, Small Bowel Service, Agias Sofias 18, 54622, Thessaloniki, Greece.
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3
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Frias-Gomes C, Torres J, Palmela C. Intestinal Ultrasound in Inflammatory Bowel Disease: A Valuable and Increasingly Important Tool. GE-PORTUGUESE JOURNAL OF GASTROENTEROLOGY 2021; 29:223-239. [PMID: 35979252 PMCID: PMC9275009 DOI: 10.1159/000520212] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2021] [Accepted: 09/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Background Intestinal ultrasound is emerging as a non-invasive tool for monitoring disease activity in inflammatory bowel disease patients due to its low cost, excellent safety profile, and availability. Herein, we comprehensively review the role of intestinal ultrasound in the management of these patients. Summary Intestinal ultrasound has a good accuracy in the diagnosis of Crohn's disease, as well as in the assessment of disease activity, extent, and evaluating disease-related complications, namely strictures, fistulae, and abscesses. Even though not fully validated, several scores have been developed to assess disease activity using ultrasound. Importantly, intestinal ultrasound can also be used to assess response to treatment. Changes in ultrasonographic parameters are observed as early as 4 weeks after treatment initiation and persist during short- and long-term follow-up. Additionally, Crohn's disease patients with no ultrasound improvement seem to be at a higher risk of therapy intensification, need for steroids, hospitalisation, or even surgery. Similarly to Crohn's disease, intestinal ultrasound has a good performance in the diagnosis, activity, and disease extent assessment in ulcerative colitis patients. In fact, in patients with severe acute colitis, higher bowel wall thickness at admission is associated with the need for salvage therapy and the absence of a significant decrease in this parameter may predict the need for colectomy. Short-term data also evidence the role of intestinal ultrasound in evaluating therapy response, with ultrasound changes observed after 2 weeks of treatment and significant improvement after 12 weeks of follow-up in ulcerative colitis. Key Messages Intestinal ultrasound is a valuable tool to assess disease activity and complications, and to monitor response to therapy. Even though longer prospective data are warranted, intestinal ultrasound may lead to a change in the paradigm of inflammatory bowel disease management as it can be used in a point-of-care setting, enabling earlier intervention if needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Catarina Frias-Gomes
- Gastroenterology Division, Surgical Department, Hospital Beatriz Ângelo, Loures, Portugal
| | - Joana Torres
- Gastroenterology Division, Surgical Department, Hospital Beatriz Ângelo, Loures, Portugal
- Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Carolina Palmela
- Gastroenterology Division, Surgical Department, Hospital Beatriz Ângelo, Loures, Portugal
- *Carolina Palmela,
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Ferretti F, Cannatelli R, Ardizzone S, Maier JA, Maconi G. Ultrasonographic Evaluation of Intestinal Fibrosis and Inflammation in Crohn's Disease. The State of the Art. Front Pharmacol 2021; 12:679924. [PMID: 33981246 PMCID: PMC8107820 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2021.679924] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2021] [Accepted: 04/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The evaluation of the degree of inflammation and fibrosis, intrinsic elements in intestinal wall damage of Crohn’s disease, is essential to individuate the extent of the lesions and the presence of strictures. This information will contribute to the choice of the appropriate therapeutic approach, the prediction of the response to therapy and the course of the disease. The accurate evaluation of the extent and severity of inflammation and/or fibrosis in Crohn’s disease currently requires histopathological analysis of the intestinal wall. However, in clinical practice and research, transmural assessment of the intestinal wall with cross sectional imaging is increasingly used for this purpose. The B-mode ultrasonograhic characteristics of the intestinal wall, the assessment of its vascularization by color Doppler and I.V. contrast agents, and the evaluation of the mechanical and elastic properties by sonoelastography, may provide useful and accurate information on the severity and extent of inflammation and intestinal fibrosis in Crohn’s disease. The purpose of this review is to provide an update on current sonographic methods to discriminate inflammation and fibrosis in Crohn’s disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesca Ferretti
- Gastroenterology Unit-ASST Fatebenefratelli-Sacco, Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences (DIBIC) L. Sacco, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Rosanna Cannatelli
- Gastroenterology Unit-ASST Fatebenefratelli-Sacco, Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences (DIBIC) L. Sacco, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Sandro Ardizzone
- Gastroenterology Unit-ASST Fatebenefratelli-Sacco, Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences (DIBIC) L. Sacco, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Jeanette A Maier
- General Pathology-Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences (DIBIC) L. Sacco, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Giovanni Maconi
- Gastroenterology Unit-ASST Fatebenefratelli-Sacco, Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences (DIBIC) L. Sacco, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
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5
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White LS, Campbell C, Lee A, Lord A, Radford-Smith G. Intestinal ultrasound as first-line investigation in low-risk gastrointestinal symptoms: a new model of care. Intern Med J 2020; 52:95-99. [PMID: 33197118 DOI: 10.1111/imj.15133] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2020] [Revised: 10/20/2020] [Accepted: 10/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Functional gut disorders (FGD) are common. Diagnosis is symptom based, although symptoms may be indistinguishable from inflammatory bowel disease. As a result of this, investigations are common, diagnostic yield is low. A streamlined novel model of care may reduce costly investigations. AIM To compare a new model of care for patients with low-risk gastrointestinal symptoms to a matched historical cohort. METHODS Data were prospectively collected over 12 months. General practitioner referrals for low-risk abdominal symptoms were triaged to a new multidisciplinary clinic structure utilising intestinal ultrasound. Outcomes were compared to the historical model in the preceding 12 months. Duration of care (time from referral to discharge), number of contact episodes and investigations ordered were reviewed. RESULTS Thirty-seven patients meeting strict inclusion criteria completed their care. Compared with the historical cohort, colonoscopies reduced from 0.7 to 0.05 per patient (P < 0.0001). Gastroenterology consults reduced from 1.5 to 1.2 (P = 0.303) and dietitian review increased from 0.8 to 1.5 (P < 0.0001). Total contact episodes reduced from 3.2 to 1.8 (P < 0.0001). Duration of care reduced from a median of 252 days to 130 days (interquartile ranges (IQR) 287 and 69, respectively; P < 0.0001). Time from first consultation to discharge reduced from 125 to 42 days (IQR 188 and 63; P < 0.0001). CONCLUSION This multidisciplinary approach to care of low-risk abdominal symptoms significantly reduced contact episodes, time in care and invasive investigations. It decreased costly gastroenterology consultation and increased allied health exposure. It demonstrates improved health service outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lauren S White
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Sunshine Coast University Hospital, Sunshine Coast, Queensland, Australia.,Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Royal Brisbane Womens Hospital, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia.,Gut Health Group, QIMR Berghofer, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Caitlin Campbell
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Royal Brisbane Womens Hospital, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Andrew Lee
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Royal Brisbane Womens Hospital, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Anton Lord
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Royal Brisbane Womens Hospital, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia.,Gut Health Group, QIMR Berghofer, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Graham Radford-Smith
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Royal Brisbane Womens Hospital, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia.,Gut Health Group, QIMR Berghofer, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
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6
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Smith RL, Taylor KM, Friedman AB, Gibson RN, Gibson PR. Systematic Review: Clinical Utility of Gastrointestinal Ultrasound in the Diagnosis, Assessment and Management of Patients With Ulcerative Colitis. J Crohns Colitis 2020; 14:465-479. [PMID: 31562739 DOI: 10.1093/ecco-jcc/jjz163] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS Gastrointestinal ultrasound is useful in the assessment of patients with Crohn's disease, but its application in ulcerative colitis [UC] is less well established. Here we systematically review the role of gastrointestinal ultrasound in patients with UC. METHODS Searches of the PUBMED and EMBASE databases were performed with the following search strategy: [ultrasound OR sonography] AND [intestinal OR bowel] AND [ulcerative colitis OR inflammatory bowel disease]. The final search was performed in August 2019. RESULTS Of 6769 studies identified in the search with a further two studies found from other sources, 50 studies met the inclusion criteria. Increased bowel wall thickness and detection of increased blood flow by colour Doppler were the most often applied criteria for defining disease activity and distribution. When compared with other reference investigations, gastrointestinal ultrasound accurately determined disease extent, severity and response to medical therapy. While further information can be obtained from haemodynamic measurements of the abdominal vessels and contrast-enhanced ultrasound, their clinical value was uncertain. Likewise, hydrocolonic sonography has few advantages over standard gastrointestinal ultrasound examination. Of several scoring systems proposed, there is disparity between the measures and a general lack of validation. There has been limited application of gastrointestinal ultrasound in acute severe ulcerative colitis with toxic megacolon, and, while performing well in children, normal limits differ from those in adults. CONCLUSION Current evidence indicates that gastrointestinal ultrasound has utility in the non-invasive assessment of patients with UC. Continued advances in technology with better image resolution, validation of scoring systems and application at the point of care by gastroenterologists are likely to contribute to increased use of gastrointestinal ultrasound in routine clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca L Smith
- Department of Gastroenterology, Alfred Hospital and Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Kirstin M Taylor
- Department of Gastroenterology, Alfred Hospital and Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Antony B Friedman
- Department of Gastroenterology, Alfred Hospital and Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Robert N Gibson
- Department of Radiology, The Royal Melbourne Hospital and The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Peter R Gibson
- Department of Gastroenterology, Alfred Hospital and Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
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7
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Ong AML. Utility of gastrointestinal ultrasound in functional gastrointestinal disorders: A narrative review. World J Meta-Anal 2020; 8:109-118. [DOI: 10.13105/wjma.v8.i2.109] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2019] [Revised: 02/05/2020] [Accepted: 03/09/2020] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Gastrointestinal (GI) ultrasound (GIUS) is valuable in the evaluation of GI diseases such as inflammatory bowel disease, but its use in functional GI disorders (FGIDs) is largely unknown although promising. In order to review the current knowledge on current and potential uses of GIUS in FGIDs, information was obtained via a structured literature search through PubMed, EMBASE and Google Scholar databases with a combination of MESH and keyword search terms: “ultrasound”, “functional GI disorders”, “irritable bowel syndrome”, “functional dyspepsia”, “intestinal ultrasound”, “point of care ultrasonography”, “transabdominal sonography”, “motility”, “faecal loading”, “constipation”. GIUS is currently used for various settings involving upper and lower GI tracts, including excluding organic diseases, evaluating physiology, guiding treatment options and building rapport with patients. GIUS can be potentially used to correlate mechanisms with symptoms, evaluate mechanisms behind treatment efficacy, and investigate further the origin of symptoms in real-time. In conclusion, GIUS is unique in its real-time, interactive and non-invasive nature, with the ability of evaluating several physiological mechanisms with one test, thus making it attractive in the evaluation and management of FGIDs. However, there are still limitations and concerns of operator dependence and lack of validation data for widespread implementation of GIUS in FGIDs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew Ming-Liang Ong
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Singapore General Hospital, Singapore 169856, Singapore
- Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore 169857, Singapore
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8
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Fraquelli M, Castiglione F, Calabrese E, Maconi G. Impact of intestinal ultrasound on the management of patients with inflammatory bowel disease: how to apply scientific evidence to clinical practice. Dig Liver Dis 2020; 52:9-18. [PMID: 31732443 DOI: 10.1016/j.dld.2019.10.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2019] [Revised: 09/27/2019] [Accepted: 10/08/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Technological improvements and growing sonographers' expertise boost the role of intestinal ultrasound (IUS) in assessing patients with inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD). Non-invasiveness, low cost and good reproducibility make IUS attractive. Leveraging on the Authors' long-term field experience, this review focuses on the IUS role in IBD patients' clinical management. For detecting IBD, particularly Crohn's disease, the IUS parameters - above all the evidence of a thickened bowel wall (BWT) - show very good diagnostic accuracy similar to that of MRI or CT scan. The standard IUS parameters are not accurate enough to detect inflammatory activity, but intravenous contrast-enhanced US (CEUS) is highly accurate in ruling active inflammation out. However, its routinely use remains limited in clinical practice and its parameters need standardization. IUS is accurate in detecting IBD main complications: in particular, fistulae and abscesses. As to stenosis the recent introduction of IUS-based elastographic techniques allows to differentiate prevalently inflammatory from highly fibrotic strictures. IUS proves valid also for monitoring IBD patients. In particular, the evidence of transmural healing, defined as BWT normalization, has got an important prognostic meaning, as associated with better long-term clinical outcomes. Post-surgery CD recurrence can be suggested by early IUS assessment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mirella Fraquelli
- Gastroenterology and Endoscopy Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda, Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy.
| | - Fabiana Castiglione
- Gastroenterology, Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, School of Medicine, "Federico II" University of Naples, Naples, Italy
| | - Emma Calabrese
- Gastroenterology Unit, Department of Systems Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - Giovanni Maconi
- Gastroenterology Unit, Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, ASST Fatebenefratelli Sacco, "Luigi Sacco" Hospital, University of Milan, Italy
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9
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White JR, Jairath V, Moran GW. Evolution of treatment targets in Crohn's disease. Best Pract Res Clin Gastroenterol 2019; 38-39:101599. [PMID: 31327410 DOI: 10.1016/j.bpg.2019.02.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2019] [Accepted: 02/14/2019] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
Crohn's disease is a chronic relapsing and remitting inflammatory disorder of the gastrointestinal tract, associated with significantly morbidity due to both symptoms and complications that have a considerable detrimental impact on a patient's quality of life. An early treat to target approach with disease modifying agents has been shown to significantly improve long term outcomes, demonstrated by a number of therapeutic targets in a number of modalities. This review will outline the current treatment targets and measures of disease burden in Crohn's disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan R White
- National Institute of Health Research Nottingham Biomedical Research Centre, Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust and the University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK; Nottingham Digestive Diseases Centre, The University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK.
| | - Vipul Jairath
- Department of Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology, Western University, London, ON, Canada; Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Western University, London, ON, Canada.
| | - Gordon W Moran
- National Institute of Health Research Nottingham Biomedical Research Centre, Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust and the University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK; Nottingham Digestive Diseases Centre, The University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK.
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10
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Conti CB, Giunta M, Gridavilla D, Conte D, Fraquelli M. Role of Bowel Ultrasound in the Diagnosis and Follow-up of Patients with Crohn's Disease. ULTRASOUND IN MEDICINE & BIOLOGY 2017; 43:725-734. [PMID: 28185694 DOI: 10.1016/j.ultrasmedbio.2016.12.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2016] [Revised: 11/18/2016] [Accepted: 12/20/2016] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
Crohn's disease (CD) is an inflammatory chronic bowel disorder; it can involve the whole gastrointestinal tract, but its localization in the ileum or colon is most common. The reference standard for the diagnosis of CD is ileocolonoscopy with histologic assessment. The reference standard for the detection of any complications is surgery. However, imaging techniques have an important role both in the detection/localization of CD and in the follow-up of CD patients. In the last few years, the technical development of ultrasound equipment, the advent of new technologies such as elastography and mostly the increased expertise of sonographers have boosted the role of bowel ultrasound in assessment of the gastrointestinal tract. In fact, bowel ultrasound is particularly attractive thanks to its widespread availability, non-invasiveness, low cost and good reproducibility, as it can be easily repeated during follow-up. The aim of this article is to provide an extensive overview of the actual role of bowel ultrasound in the detection and follow-up of patients with CD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Clara Benedetta Conti
- Gastroenterology and Endoscopy Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy; and Department of Pathophysiology and Organ Transplantation, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Mariangela Giunta
- Gastroenterology and Endoscopy Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy; and Department of Pathophysiology and Organ Transplantation, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Daniele Gridavilla
- Gastroenterology and Endoscopy Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy; and Department of Pathophysiology and Organ Transplantation, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Dario Conte
- Gastroenterology and Endoscopy Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy; and Department of Pathophysiology and Organ Transplantation, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Mirella Fraquelli
- Gastroenterology and Endoscopy Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy; and Department of Pathophysiology and Organ Transplantation, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy.
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11
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Bor R, Fábián A, Szepes Z. Role of ultrasound in colorectal diseases. World J Gastroenterol 2016; 22:9477-9487. [PMID: 27920469 PMCID: PMC5116592 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v22.i43.9477] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2016] [Revised: 09/11/2016] [Accepted: 10/19/2016] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Ultrasound is an undervalued non-invasive examination in the diagnosis of colonic diseases. It has been replaced by the considerably more expensive magnetic resonance imaging and computed tomography, despite the fact that, as first examination, it can usefully supplement the diagnostic process. Transabdominal ultrasound can provide quick information about bowel status and help in the choice of adequate further examinations and treatment. Ultrasonography, as a screening imaging modality in asymptomatic patients can identify several colonic diseases such as diverticulosis, inflammatory bowel disease or cancer. In addition, it is widely available, cheap, non-invasive technique without the use of ionizing radiation, therefore it is safe to use in childhood or during pregnancy, and can be repeated at any time. New ultrasound techniques such as elastography, contrast enhanced and Doppler ultrasound, mini-probes rectal and transperineal ultrasonography have broadened the indication. It gives an overview of the methodology of various ultrasound examinations, presents the morphology of normal bowel wall and the typical changes in different colonic diseases. We will pay particular attention to rectal and transperineal ultrasound because of their outstanding significance in the diagnosis of rectal and perineal disorders. This article seeks to overview the diagnostic impact and correct indications of bowel ultrasound.
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12
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Bowel Ultrasonography in the Management of Crohn's Disease. A Review with Recommendations of an International Panel of Experts. Inflamm Bowel Dis 2016; 22:1168-83. [PMID: 26958988 DOI: 10.1097/mib.0000000000000706] [Citation(s) in RCA: 112] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Bowel ultrasonography (US) is considered a useful technique for assessing mural inflammation and complications in Crohn's disease (CD). The aim of this review is to appraise the evidence on the accuracy of bowel US for CD. In addition, we aim to provide recommendations for its optimal use. METHODS Publications were identified by literature search from 1992 to 2014 and selected based on predefined criteria: 15 or more patients; bowel US for diagnosing CD, complications, postoperative recurrence, activity; adequate reference standards; prospective study design; data reported to allow calculation of sensitivity, specificity, agreement, or correlation values; articles published in English. RESULTS The search yielded 655 articles, of which 63 were found to be eligible and retrieved as full-text articles for analysis. Bowel US showed 79.7% sensitivity and 96.7% specificity for the diagnosis of suspected CD, and 89% sensitivity and 94.3% specificity for initial assessment in established patients with CD. Bowel US identified ileal CD with 92.7% sensitivity, 88.2% specificity, and colon CD with 81.8% sensitivity, 95.3% specificity, with lower accuracy for detecting proximal lesions. The oral contrast agent improves the sensitivity and specificity in determining CD lesions and in assessing sites and extent. CONCLUSIONS Bowel US is a tool for evaluation of CD lesions in terms of complications, postoperative recurrence, and monitoring response to medical therapy; it reliably detects postoperative recurrence and complications, as well as offers the possibility of monitoring disease progression.
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13
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Thornton GCD, Goldacre MJ, Goldacre R, Howarth LJ. Diagnostic outcomes following childhood non-specific abdominal pain: a record-linkage study. Arch Dis Child 2016. [PMID: 26220924 DOI: 10.1136/archdischild-2015-308198] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
AIMS Non-specific abdominal pain (NSAP) is the most common diagnosis on discharge following admission for abdominal pain in childhood. Our aim was to determine the risk of subsequent hospital diagnosis of organic and functional gastroenterological conditions following a diagnosis of NSAP, and to assess the persistence of this risk. METHODS An NSAP cohort of 268,623 children aged 0-16 years was constructed from linked English Hospital Episode Statistics from 1999 to 2011. The control cohort (1,684,923 children, 0-16 years old) comprised children hospitalised with unrelated conditions. Clinically relevant outcomes were selected and standardised rate ratios were calculated. RESULTS From the NSAP cohort, 15,515 (5.8%) were later hospitalised with bowel pathology and 13,301 (5%) with a specific functional disorder. Notably, there was a 4.84 (95% CI 4.45 to 5.27) times greater risk of Crohn's disease following NSAP and a 4.23 (4.13 to 4.33) greater risk of acute appendicitis than in the control cohort. The risk of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) was 7.22 (6.65 to 7.85) times greater following NSAP. The risks of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), IBS and functional disorder (unspecified) were significantly increased in all age groups except <2-year-olds. The risk of underlying bowel pathology remained raised up to 10 years after first diagnosis with NSAP. CONCLUSIONS Only a small proportion of those with NSAP go on to be hospitalised with underlying bowel pathology. However, their risk is increased even at 10 years after the first hospital admission with NSAP. Diagnostic strategies need to be assessed and refined and active surveillance employed for children with NSAP.
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Affiliation(s)
- G C D Thornton
- Department of Paediatric Gastroenterology, Oxford University Hospitals Trust, Oxford, UK
| | - M J Goldacre
- Unit of Health-Care Epidemiology, Nuffield Department of Population Health, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - R Goldacre
- Unit of Health-Care Epidemiology, Nuffield Department of Population Health, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - L J Howarth
- Department of Paediatric Gastroenterology, Oxford University Hospitals Trust, Oxford, UK
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14
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Fraquelli M, Baccarin A, Corti F, Conti CB, Russo MC, Della Valle S, Pozzi R, Cressoni M, Conte D, Colombo C. Bowel ultrasound imaging in patients with cystic fibrosis: Relationship with clinical symptoms and CFTR genotype. Dig Liver Dis 2016; 48:271-6. [PMID: 26514737 DOI: 10.1016/j.dld.2015.09.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2015] [Revised: 09/08/2015] [Accepted: 09/20/2015] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Ultrasound imaging is used to assess bowel abnormalities in gastrointestinal diseases. We aimed to assess the rate of predefined bowel ultrasound signs and their relationship with gastrointestinal symptoms and the cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) genotype in cystic fibrosis patients in regular follow-up. METHODS Prospective study of 70 consecutive patients with cystic fibrosis and 45 controls who underwent abdominal ultrasound; pertinent findings were related to gastrointestinal symptoms and, in cystic fibrosis patients, to pancreatic status, malabsorption degree, lipase intake, CFTR genotype (classified as severe or mild against functional class of CFTR mutations). RESULTS 96% patients showed at least one abnormal bowel ultrasound sign. Most frequent signs were lymph node enlargement (64%), bowel loop dilatation (55%), thick corpuscular intraluminal content (49%), bowel wall hypervascularization (26%), thickened bowel wall (22%) and intussusception (17%). Patients with recurrent abdominal pain showed more bowel wall hypervascularization than patients without recurrent pain (47% vs. 19%, respectively; p = 0.02) and intussusception (58% vs. 17%, respectively; p < 0.01). Genotype was not associated to specific bowel ultrasound signs. Patients with bowel loop intussusception showed greater lipase intake than those without intussusception (8.118 ± 2.083 vs. 5.994 ± 4.187, respectively; p < 0.01). CONCLUSION Cystic fibrosis patients present a higher rate of bowel ultrasound abnormalities than controls. Bowel ultrasound abnormalities are associated with abdominal symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mirella Fraquelli
- Gastroenterology and Endoscopy Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Cà Granda, Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy.
| | - Alessandra Baccarin
- Gastroenterology and Endoscopy Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Cà Granda, Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | - Fabiola Corti
- Regional Referral Centre for Cystic Fibrosis, Fondazione IRCCS Cà Granda, Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Clara Benedetta Conti
- Gastroenterology and Endoscopy Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Cà Granda, Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | - Maria Chiara Russo
- Regional Referral Centre for Cystic Fibrosis, Fondazione IRCCS Cà Granda, Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Serena Della Valle
- S.S.D., Department of Anesthesia and Resuscitation, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale Tumori, Milan, Italy
| | - Roberta Pozzi
- Gastroenterology and Endoscopy Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Cà Granda, Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | - Massimo Cressoni
- Department of Pathophysiology and Transplantation, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Dario Conte
- Gastroenterology and Endoscopy Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Cà Granda, Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy; Department of Pathophysiology and Transplantation, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Carla Colombo
- Regional Referral Centre for Cystic Fibrosis, Fondazione IRCCS Cà Granda, Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
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15
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Ultrasonographic findings in Crohn's disease. J Ultrasound 2014; 18:37-49. [PMID: 25767639 DOI: 10.1007/s40477-014-0096-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2014] [Accepted: 04/17/2014] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
In recent years transabdominal bowel sonography has become a first-line modality both in the diagnosis and in the follow-up of inflammatory bowel diseases, especially Crohn's disease, reaching values of sensitivity ranging from 84 to 93 %. In particular, its role is very useful in the early diagnosis of complications such as stenosis, phlegmons, abscesses and fistulae. According to the available literature the ability of US to provide information about disease activity is still under debate and further studies are necessary. In this regard, of fundamental importance is the use of additional techniques such as color- and power-Doppler and contrast-enhanced ultrasound. The purpose of this paper is to report the main sonographic intestinal and extraintestinal findings detectable in Crohn's disease.
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16
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Dong J, Wang H, Zhao J, Zhu W, Zhang L, Gong J, Li Y, Gu L, Li J. Ultrasound as a diagnostic tool in detecting active Crohn's disease: a meta-analysis of prospective studies. Eur Radiol 2013; 24:26-33. [PMID: 23921767 DOI: 10.1007/s00330-013-2973-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 75] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2013] [Revised: 06/20/2013] [Accepted: 07/09/2013] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To evaluate the diagnostic accuracy of ultrasound in assessing active Crohn's disease (CD) in adults. METHODS We systematically searched PubMed, EMBASE, Web of Science and the Cochrane Library for prospective studies in which ultrasound was performed to evaluate active CD in adults from January 1993 to April 2013. Pooled sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative likelihood ratios (LR+ and LR-) and diagnostic odds ratios (DORs) in a per-patient-based analysis were estimated. Additionally, the area under the receiver-operating characteristic (ROC) curve was calculated to measure the diagnostic accuracy of ultrasound in patients with known or suspected CD. RESULTS Fifteen studies involving 1,558 patients were included in this meta-analysis. Overall, the pooled sensitivity (0.88) and LR- (0.14) were not heterogeneous, whereas the pooled specificity (0.97, I(2) = 72.9 %) and LR + (15.10, I(2) = 71.8 %) were. The DOR of ultrasound for assessing active CD was 121.70, with significant heterogeneity (I(2) = 63.3 %). A symmetrical summary ROC curve was plotted showing that the area under the curve was 0.94, indicating good diagnostic accuracy. Meta-regression and subgroup analysis showed that the disease location may be a major cause of heterogeneity. CONCLUSIONS This meta-analysis suggests that ultrasound has high diagnostic accuracy in detecting active CD in adults, especially for small bowel CD. KEY POINTS • Ultrasound can detect active Crohn's disease (CD). • A meta-analysis of ultrasound for detecting active CD was carried out. • This revealed that ultrasound has high diagnostic accuracy for detecting CD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jianning Dong
- Department of General Surgery, Jinling Hospital, Medical School of Nanjing University, No. 305 East Zhongshan Road, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province, China
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17
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Sey MSL, Gregor J, Chande N, Ponich T, Bhaduri M, Lum A, Zaleski W, Yan B. Transcutaneous bowel sonography for inflammatory bowel disease is sensitive and specific when performed in a nonexpert low-volume North American center. JOURNAL OF ULTRASOUND IN MEDICINE : OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE AMERICAN INSTITUTE OF ULTRASOUND IN MEDICINE 2013; 32:1413-1417. [PMID: 23887951 DOI: 10.7863/ultra.32.8.1413] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Transcutaneous bowel sonography is a nonionizing imaging modality used in inflammatory bowel disease. Although available in Europe, its uptake in North America has been limited. Since the accuracy of bowel sonography is highly operator dependent, low-volume centers in North America may not achieve the same diagnostic accuracy reported in the European literature. Our objective was to determine the diagnostic accuracy of bowel sonography in a nonexpert low-volume center. METHODS All cases of bowel sonography at a single tertiary care center during an 18-month period were reviewed. Bowel sonography was compared with reference standards, including small-bowel follow-through, computed tomography, magnetic resonance imaging, colonoscopy, and surgical findings. RESULTS A total of 103 cases were included for analysis during the study period. The final diagnoses included Crohn disease (72), ulcerative colitis (8), hemolytic uremic syndrome (1), and normal (22). The sensitivity and specificity of bowel sonography for intestinal wall inflammation were 87.8% and 92.6%, respectively. In the subset of patients who had complications of Crohn disease, the sensitivity and specificity were 50% and 100% for fistulas and 14% and 100% for strictures. One patient had an abscess, which was detected by bowel sonography. Abnormal bowel sonographic findings contributed to the escalation of treatment in 55% of cases. CONCLUSIONS Bowel sonography for inflammatory bowel disease can be performed in low-volume centers and provides diagnostic accuracy for luminal disease comparable with published data, although it is less sensitive for complications of Crohn disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Sai Lai Sey
- Department of Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
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18
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Stasi C, Falchini M, Milani S. Imaging modalities for the noninvasive assessment of fibrosis in Crohn's disease. ScientificWorldJournal 2012; 2012:450151. [PMID: 22654607 PMCID: PMC3361240 DOI: 10.1100/2012/450151] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2011] [Accepted: 01/03/2012] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The development of strictures in Crohn's disease is a main cause of hospitalization and often represent an indication for surgery. The differentiation between inflammatory and fibrotic strictures is useful to determine the optimal treatment. Today, the availability of noninvasive methods to assess the presence and extension of strictures offers new tools for the diagnosis and follow-up of the disease.
Bowel ultrasound, power doppler ultrasound, contrast-enhanced ultrasound, magnetic resonance imaging offer the additional advantage that they do not expose patients to ionizing radiation. In this paper we provide an update on the accuracy of these noninvasive methods for the diagnosis of Crohn's disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristina Stasi
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Florence, 50134 Florence, Italy.
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19
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Ultrasound of the small bowel in Crohn's disease. Int J Inflam 2012; 2012:964720. [PMID: 22518346 PMCID: PMC3299330 DOI: 10.1155/2012/964720] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2011] [Revised: 11/24/2011] [Accepted: 12/09/2011] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Several radiological and endoscopic techniques are now available for the study of inflammatory bowel diseases. In everyday practice, the choice of the technique to be used depends upon its availability and a careful evaluation of diagnostic accuracy, clinical usefulness, safety, and cost. The recent development of innovative and noninvasive imaging techniques has led to a new and exciting area in the exploration of the gastrointestinal tract, especially in Crohn's disease patients by using ultrasound with oral or intravenous contrast.
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20
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Panés J, Bouzas R, Chaparro M, García-Sánchez V, Gisbert JP, Martínez de Guereñu B, Mendoza JL, Paredes JM, Quiroga S, Ripollés T, Rimola J. Systematic review: the use of ultrasonography, computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging for the diagnosis, assessment of activity and abdominal complications of Crohn's disease. Aliment Pharmacol Ther 2011; 34:125-45. [PMID: 21615440 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2036.2011.04710.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 434] [Impact Index Per Article: 33.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cross-sectional imaging techniques, including ultrasonography (US), computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), are increasingly used for evaluation of Crohn's disease (CD). Aim To perform an assessment of the diagnostic accuracy of cross-sectional imaging techniques for diagnosis of CD, evaluation of disease extension and activity and diagnosis of complications, and to provide recommendations for their optimal use. METHODS Relevant publications were identified by literature search and selected based on predefined quality parameters, including a prospective design, sample size and reference standard. A total of 68 publications were chosen. RESULTS Ultrasonography is an accurate technique for diagnosis of suspected CD and for evaluation of disease activity (sensitivity 0.84, specificity 0.92), is widely available and non-invasive, but its accuracy is lower for disease proximal to the terminal ileum. MRI has a high diagnostic accuracy for the diagnosis of suspected CD and for evaluation of disease extension and activity (sensitivity 0.93, specificity 0.90), and is less dependent on the examiner and disease location compared with US. CT has a similar accuracy to MRI for assessment of disease extension and activity. The three techniques have a high accuracy for identification of fistulas, abscesses and stenosis (sensitivities and specificities >0.80), although US has false positive results for abscesses. As a result of the lack of radiation, US or MRI should be preferred over CT, particularly in young patients. CONCLUSIONS Cross-sectional imaging techniques have a high accuracy for evaluation of suspected and established CD, reliably measure disease severity and complications; they may offer the possibility to monitor disease progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Panés
- Hospital Clínic of Barcelona, IDIBAPS, Barcelona, Spain.
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21
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Jellema P, van Tulder MW, van der Horst HE, Florie J, Mulder CJ, van der Windt DAWM. Inflammatory bowel disease: a systematic review on the value of diagnostic testing in primary care. Colorectal Dis 2011; 13:239-54. [PMID: 19912290 DOI: 10.1111/j.1463-1318.2009.02131.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
AIM The clinical presentation of inflammatory bowel disease in primary care represents a diagnostic challenge as its symptoms are heterogeneous and common. To assist the primary care physician, we have summarized the available evidence on diagnostic tests in patients with abdominal symptoms. METHOD We searched PubMed and Embase and screened references. Studies were selected if the design was a primary diagnostic study. Patients were adults attending with nonacute abdominal symptoms. Tests included clinical assessment, blood or faecal tests or abdominal ultrasonography. Quality assessment using a modified version of the QUADAS tool and data extraction was performed by two reviewers independently. Diagnostic two-by-two tables and pooled estimates of sensitivity and specificity are given. We refrained from pooling when there was considerable clinical or statistical heterogeneity. RESULTS A total of 24 studies were included. While the diagnostic performance of the individual symptoms was highly variable (range sensitivity 0.0-0.96, specificity 0.09-1.0), the performance of symptom-based classification systems was both more consistent and better (sensitivity 0.65-1.0, specificity 0.17-0.82). Among faecal and blood tests, calprotectin was studied most frequently and showed the best results (sensitivity 0.61-1.0, specificity 0.71-1.0). Statistical pooling for ultrasonography resulted in a sensitivity of 0.73 (0.65-0.80) and a specificity of 0.95 (0.91-0.97). CONCLUSION Although calprotectin and ultrasonography showed consistent and promising findings, none of the studies was performed in primary care. To assist primary care physicians in diagnostic decision making, we urgently need high quality studies performed in primary care.
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Affiliation(s)
- P Jellema
- Department of General Practice, EMGO Institute for Health and Care Research, VU University Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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22
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Rigazio C, Ercole E, Laudi C, Daperno M, Lavagna A, Crocella L, Bertolino F, Viganò L, Sostegni R, Pera A, Rocca R. Abdominal bowel ultrasound can predict the risk of surgery in Crohn's disease: proposal of an ultrasonographic score. Scand J Gastroenterol 2009; 44:585-93. [PMID: 19148846 DOI: 10.1080/00365520802705992] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Abdominal bowel ultrasound (US) is widely used in the management of Crohn's disease (CD). The aim of this study was to evaluate the prognostic role of bowel-wall US morphology on the short-term risk of surgery. MATERIAL AND METHODS The 147 CD patients recruited in a case-control study comprised 49 cases operated on within 30 days after US examination and 98 matched non-operated controls. Clinical and US characteristics were analysed. Bowel-wall thickness was recorded, bowel-wall patterns were grouped into five types, but for final analysis they were grouped as "preserved" or "disrupted stratification". RESULTS Wall thickness and US patterns were significantly different between cases and controls (p<0.0001). A wall thickness >4.5 mm was observed in 45/49 cases and 47/98 controls (OR = 12.21), while "disrupted stratification" was observed in 34/49 cases and 12/98 controls (OR = 16.24). Among the clinical and US characteristics recorded, only 4 US variables were independently associated with surgery (pattern, thickness, presence of fistulae/abscesses and stenoses) and considered for the US score=(2.5*US pattern)+(1.5*Bowel thickness)+(3*Presence of fistulae/abscesses)+(1.5*Presence of stenoses). Based on this score, up to 84% of patients were correctly classified according to actual status (operated/non-operated). CONCLUSIONS Although it needs further prospective validation, the score we propose seems to be a reliable prognostic marker for the short-term risk of surgery in CD. In particular, the score points out those patients with an impending risk of surgery who need careful and frequent control in order to decide on the right time for surgery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caterina Rigazio
- Gastroenterology Division, Inflammatory Bowel Disease Centre, AO Ordine Mauriziano, Turin, Italy.
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23
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Crohn's disease: Clinical–surgical questions and imaging answers. Eur J Radiol 2009; 69:375-80. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ejrad.2008.11.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2008] [Accepted: 11/11/2008] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
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24
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Bruining DH, Loftus EV. Technology Insight: new techniques for imaging the gut in patients with IBD. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2008; 5:154-61. [PMID: 18212778 DOI: 10.1038/ncpgasthep1028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2007] [Accepted: 10/29/2007] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Advances in techniques for imaging the gut continue to drive the rapid development of modalities for diagnosing and assessing the activity of IBD. Abdominal ultrasound and magnetic resonance enterography have shown great potential for the diagnosis of IBD and assessment of its distribution, with the benefit of avoiding radiation exposure and serving as a safe option for pregnant patients. CT enterography or CT enteroclysis, with neutral or negative contrast, seems to be a sensitive and specific modality for detecting disease in the small bowel. The role of CT or magnetic resonance colonography in patients with IBD remains uncertain and these modalities are now best reserved for patients who decline or cannot undergo standard endoscopic evaluations. Capsule endoscopy might be the most sensitive modality for the detection of mucosal small bowel disease, but its specificity remains in question. Double-balloon endoscopy is an exciting new tool that has the distinct advantage of enabling biopsy or treatment of lesions detected during the procedure. All these techniques are at the forefront of the rapidly evolving field of imaging the gut in patients with IBD.
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Affiliation(s)
- David H Bruining
- Miles and Shirley Fiterman Center for Digestive Diseases, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine, 200 First Street SW, Rochester, MN 55905, USA
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25
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Saibeni S, Rondonotti E, Iozzelli A, Spina L, Tontini GE, Cavallaro F, Ciscato C, de Franchis R, Sardanelli F, Vecchi M. Imaging of the small bowel in Crohn's disease: A review of old and new techniques. World J Gastroenterol 2007; 13:3279-87. [PMID: 17659666 PMCID: PMC4172707 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v13.i24.3279] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The investigation of small bowel morphology is often mandatory in many patients with Crohn’s disease. Traditional radiological techniques (small bowel enteroclysis and small bowel follow-through) have long been the only suitable methods for this purpose. In recent years, several alternative imaging techniques have been proposed. To review the most recent advances in imaging studies of the small bowel, with particular reference to their possible application in Crohn’s disease, we conducted a complete review of the most important studies in which traditional and newer imaging methods were performed and compared in patients with Crohn’s disease. Several radiological and endoscopic techniques are now available for the study of the small bowel; each of them is characterized by a distinct profile of favourable and unfavourable features. In some cases, they may also be used as complementary rather than alternative techniques. In everyday practice, the choice of the technique to be used stands upon its availability and a careful evaluation of diagnostic accuracy, clinical usefulness, safety and cost. The recent development of innovative imaging techniques has opened a new and exciting area in the exploration of the small bowel in Crohn’s disease patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simone Saibeni
- Gastroenterology and Gastrointestinal Endoscopy Unit IRCCS Policlinico San Donato, Via Morandi 30, 20097 San Donato Milanese, Milan, Italy
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26
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Abstract
Most published studies have found bowel ultrasound to be a useful tool in the management of Crohn's disease. Indeed, it has been successfully used as the imaging technique of choice in screening patients with clinically suspected Crohn's disease. In these patients, bowel ultrasound, which is well accepted by patients, non-invasive and of low cost, may be the first diagnostic tool employed for young patients and can be used in the preliminary diagnostic work-up prior to further invasive tests. The most important application of bowel ultrasound is, however, in the follow-up of patients already diagnosed with Crohn's disease, in whom it may be useful to assess the site and extent of the lesions and to ensure the early detection of intra-abdominal complications, particularly abscesses and strictures. In this regard, improving the ultrasound assessment of intramural blood flow by means of colour power-Doppler ultrasonography and intravenous contrast agents may help to differentiate fibrotic and inflammatory strictures, and to discriminate inflammatory masses from intra-abdominal abscesses. Despite several attempts to correlate ultrasound findings with clinical and biochemical activity, there are as yet no convincing data on the usefulness of ultrasound in assessing the activity of Crohn's disease. In contrast, preliminary results are in agreement regarding the usefulness of ultrasound in the assessment of postoperative recurrence and in monitoring the outcome of the disease following surgery. In fact, the persistence of a thickened bowel wall or increased high bowel wall thickening at ultrasound following surgery has been identified as an index of early surgical recurrence. How these data may be usefully employed in the management of individuals with Crohn's disease needs to be investigated in further studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giovanni Maconi
- Department of Gastroenterology, L. Sacco University Hospital, Via G.B. Grassi, 74, 20157 Milan, Italy.
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27
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Fraquelli M, Colli A, Casazza G, Paggi S, Colucci A, Massironi S, Duca P, Conte D. Role of US in detection of Crohn disease: meta-analysis. Radiology 2005; 236:95-101. [PMID: 15987966 DOI: 10.1148/radiol.2361040799] [Citation(s) in RCA: 196] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE To evaluate the accuracy of ultrasonography (US) in the detection of Crohn disease in adults by systematically reviewing both cohort studies (those including patients whose clinical characteristics were consistent with those caused by an inflammatory bowel disease) and case-control studies (those in which patients with Crohn disease were compared with patients with other bowel diseases or healthy control subjects). MATERIALS AND METHODS The MEDLINE, EMBASE, and Cochrane Library databases were used to retrieve all the cross-sectional studies that assessed the diagnostic accuracy of US against that of one of several predefined reference standards (ie, radiologic, endoscopic, or histologic findings). The studies that fulfilled the inclusion criteria were identified, and their methodological quality was evaluated. Of the 2860 primary studies identified, two case-control and five cohort series fulfilled the inclusion criteria. Statistical analysis was performed by using the summary receiver operating characteristic (SROC) model. RESULTS The ranges of US sensitivity and specificity for the diagnosis of Crohn disease reported for the included series were 75%-94% and 67%-100%, respectively; the heterogeneity of these values prevented the calculation of a cumulative value. The SROC curve revealed a clear cutoff effect that depended on the chosen bowel wall thickness threshold. Sensitivity and specificity of 88% and 93%, respectively, were achieved when a bowel wall thickness threshold greater than 3 mm was used, and sensitivity and specificity of 75% and 97%, respectively, were achieved when a threshold greater than 4 mm was used. CONCLUSION US examination seems appropriate for confirming or excluding Crohn disease as a diagnosis in a clinical context characterized by a pretest probability of Crohn disease that ranges from 12% to about 60%. In particular, for Crohn disease limited to the ileum, US may represent a valid alternative to the small-bowel series, while for colonic involvement US may be useful in ruling out the diagnosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mirella Fraquelli
- Postgraduate School of Gastroenterology, IRCCS Ospedale Maggiore, Via F. Sforza 35, 20122 Milan, Italy.
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Pallotta N, Tomei E, Viscido A, Calabrese E, Marcheggiano A, Caprilli R, Corazziari E. Small intestine contrast ultrasonography: an alternative to radiology in the assessment of small bowel disease. Inflamm Bowel Dis 2005; 11:146-53. [PMID: 15677908 DOI: 10.1097/00054725-200502000-00008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 72] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Radiology and transabdominal ultrasonography (TUS) are used in the evaluation of the small bowel; however, the former technique is limited by radiation exposure, and the latter by its inability to visualize the entire small bowel. AIM To evaluate the diagnostic accuracy of small intestine contrast ultrasonography (SICUS) to assess the presence, number, site, and extension of small bowel lesions. SUBJECTS AND METHODS TUS, SICUS, and small bowel follow-through (SBFT) were performed in 148 consecutive patients (78 women; age range, 12 to 89 yr), 91 with undiagnosed conditions, and 57 with previously diagnosed Crohn's disease (CD). RESULTS In the undiagnosed patients, the sensitivity and specificity of TUS and SICUS were 57% and 100%, and 94.3% and 98%, respectively. In the CD patients, the sensitivity of TUS and SICUS was 87.3% and 98%, respectively. In comparison with SBFT, the extension of lesions was correctly assessed with SICUS and greatly underestimated with TUS. The concordance index between SBFT and SICUS for the number and site of lesions was 1 and 1 (P < 0.001), respectively, in undiagnosed patients, and 0.81 and 0.83 (P < 0.001), respectively, in CD patients. Between SBFT and TUS, the concordance index was 0.28 and 0.27 (not significant), respectively, in undiagnosed patients, and 0.28 and 0.31 (not significant), respectively, in CD patients. CONCLUSIONS The diagnostic accuracy of SICUS is comparable to that of a radiologic examination, and is superior to that of TUS in detecting the presence, number, extension, and sites of small bowel lesions. These findings support the use of noninvasive SICUS for an initial investigation when small bowel disease is suspected and in the follow-up of CD patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nadia Pallotta
- Dipartimento di Scienze Cliniche, Università La Sapienza, Rome, Italy
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29
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Parente F, Greco S, Molteni M, Anderloni A, Maconi G, Bianchi Porro G. Modern imaging of Crohn's disease using bowel ultrasound. Inflamm Bowel Dis 2004; 10:452-61. [PMID: 15475759 DOI: 10.1097/00054725-200407000-00022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Technological advancement of ultrasound (US) equipments and understanding of bowel appearances with high resolution US during the last decade has led to consideration of this imaging procedure as an important tool for inflammatory bowel diseases assessment. In particular, Crohn's disease (CD) for its pathologic characteristics (that is, inflammatory infiltration of the entire bowel wall with possible extension to the surrounding mesentery) is the disease entity which has mainly taken advantage from this non-invasive, radiation-free technique. Beside correctly defining anatomic location and extension of CD lesions within the bowel in the majority of cases, US also shows perigut abnormalities and may demonstrate complications such as fistulas and abscesses. With the help of Power Doppler function, some additional information may be obtained about the local activity of the disease which is particularly useful in the presence of strictures. New US technologies (such as those using intravenous bolus contrast agents or oral nonabsorbable anechoic solutions) may further improve diagnostic capability of US in this context, thus probably revolutioning the diagnostic approach to this disease in the near future, particularly during follow-up in CD of the small bowel.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fabrizio Parente
- Department of Gastroenterology, L Sacco University Hospital, Milan, Italy.
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Keuchel M, Hagenmüller F. Video capsule endoscopy in the work-up of abdominal pain. Gastrointest Endosc Clin N Am 2004; 14:195-205. [PMID: 15062392 DOI: 10.1016/j.giec.2003.10.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Martin Keuchel
- 1st Medical Department, Allgemeines Krankenhaus Altona, Paul-Ehrlich-Strasse 1, D 22763 Hamburg, Germany.
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Parente F, Greco S, Molteni M, Cucino C, Maconi G, Sampietro GM, Danelli PG, Cristaldi M, Bianco R, Gallus S, Bianchi Porro G. Role of early ultrasound in detecting inflammatory intestinal disorders and identifying their anatomical location within the bowel. Aliment Pharmacol Ther 2003; 18:1009-16. [PMID: 14616167 DOI: 10.1046/j.1365-2036.2003.01796.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 133] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although bowel ultrasound is a widely accepted diagnostic tool in bowel diseases, its value as the primary imaging procedure in patients with symptoms/signs suggestive of inflammatory bowel disorders is still unclear. AIM To investigate the accuracy of bowel ultrasound compared with barium X-ray studies, computed tomography, endoscopy and bowel surgery in the initial assessment of inflammatory bowel disorders. METHODS Four hundred and eighty-seven patients hospitalized consecutively for symptoms or signs suggestive of a bowel disorder between December 1999 and March 2002 were initially enrolled in the study. All patients underwent bowel ultrasound as the first imaging procedure within 36 h of admission; radiographic evaluations, endoscopy and/or surgery were then performed as appropriate and the results of these investigations were used as the gold standard. RESULTS Three hundred and thirty-six patients had pathological findings of the bowel detectable at ultrasound as the final diagnosis. The main organic disorders found were Crohn's disease (56%), ulcerative/indeterminate colitis (30%), bowel tumours (5%), appendicitis/diverticulitis (2%) and other inflammatory conditions (8%). The overall sensitivity and specificity of bowel ultrasound were 85% and 95%, respectively, whereas the positive and negative predictive values were 98% and 75%, respectively. Comparisons of ultrasound with X-ray or endoscopic results by disease localization showed that the diagnostic performance of ultrasound was higher for inflammatory conditions of the ileum and sigmoid/descending colon (sensitivity of 92% and 87%, respectively), whereas abnormalities localized in the rectum, duodenum and proximal jejunum were often missed by ultrasound. CONCLUSIONS In expert hands, bowel ultrasound is highly predictive of inflammatory disease localized in the ileum or colon, and may well be used as the primary imaging method when Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis is suspected on a clinical basis.
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Affiliation(s)
- F Parente
- Department of Gastroenterology, L. Sacco University Hospital, Milan, Italy.
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Abstract
Because irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a prevalent cause of visits to the gastroenterologist, it is extremely important to have accurate guidelines for the diagnosis. During the clinical assessment of IBS, the physician must look for the gastrointestinal symptoms, extraintestinal symptoms, and psychological history that are commonly associated with IBS. There are three diagnostic criteria that may be used in the IBS diagnosis: Manning, Rome I, and Rome II. Although there is discrepancy about which is most effective, we recommend that the Rome II be used in clinical practice. To confidently diagnose IBS, the physician must rule out organic disease as a cause of symptoms. This can be done by evaluating the patient's symptoms and screening for "red flags." The diagnostic strategy for IBS involves a thorough evaluation of the patient: taking a patient history, performing a physical exam, and performing the appropriate diagnostic tests when necessary.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tony J Lembo
- Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, 330 Brookline Avenue, Dana 501, Boston, MA 00215, USA.
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