Pictorial essay: the value of rectal water in the assessment of rectosigmoid pathology

Abstract

The rectosigmoid region is a common location for the development of both malignant and benign diseases of the large bowel in adults. In many cases, rectal water provides an ideal contrast agent in the evaluation of rectosigmoid pathology. It allows optimal visualization of the mural layers and pericolic fat, as well as superior detection of flat or small sessile mural-based intralumenal filling defects. The authors of this article have devised practical clinical indications for the administration of rectal water that may help guide the radiologist in deciding when to implement this technique. Furthermore, this pictorial essay will describe the technique used by the authors, highlight the utility of this technique, and explore its practical applications and limitations in clinical practice.