Prospective evaluation of ultrasound in distal ileal and colonic obstruction

Abstract

Aim: To evaluate prospectively the usefulness of ultrasound in determining the site and cause of distal small bowel and colonic obstruction.

Materials and methods: Ultrasound findings in 60 consecutive patients with suspected distal ileal or colonic obstruction were correlated with final surgical and radiological diagnoses. The diagnostic value of ultrasound was compared with plain abdominal radiography (AXR) for the presence and level of obstruction.

Results: Forty-five patients were confirmed to be obstructed. Ultrasound correctly identified obstruction in 44/45 and the cause in 36/45 (80%). Overall sensitivity of US for obstruction was 98% and specificity 80%, compared with 79% and 53% respectively for the AXR.

Conclusion: Ultrasound is useful in determining the presence and cause of distal ileal and colonic obstruction.