Gastrointestinal Imaging
Plain Films
Plain films can reveal evidence of pneumoperitoneum, dilated, bowel loops, air-fluid levels, excessive amounts of stool, and displacement of bowel loops. These can indicate perforation, ileus obstruction, constipation or fecal impaction, or volvolvus or organ enlargement. Calcifications may also be visible.
Contrast Studies
CT Enterography
CT enterography uses injested contrast to highlight the small intestine mucosa.
Virtual Colonoscopy
Virtual colonoscopy, or CT colography, can recreate high resolution images of the colon following bowel-cleansing routines. It is 70-90% sensitive for detecting polyps or masses within the colon.