Gastrointestinal Radiology: A Case-Based Presentation

Abstract

The utility of various endoscopic procedures to visualize the entire gastrointestinal tract (esophagogastroduodenoscopy, wireless capsule endoscopy, and colonoscopy) complements the value of many advanced imaging procedures such as abdominal ultrasound, computerized axial tomography (CT scan), and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). When properly used, modern imaging techniques substantially help in the early diagnosis of intra-abdominal conditions and assess the severity of several gastrointestinal, pancreatic, and hepatobiliary emergencies. It is essential to be aware of the appropriate indications and the relatively small contraindications to minimize the abuse of the procedures, reduce the cost of care, and avoid overdiagnosis of incidental abnormalities related to an older age. The major contraindication for the techniques is the rare but occasionally life-threatening reaction and renal failure secondary to IV dye. To achieve a balance between the misuse and use with indications, one should be familiar with the American College of Radiology (ACR) guidelines. In this chapter, we have addressed some of the issues and provided images of educational value to the practicing physician.

The chapter is a revision (Amorosa and Pitchumoni 2012).