Contrast-enhanced ultrasonography for assessment of activity of Crohn's disease: the future?

Utility of MR enterography and ultrasound for the investigation of small bowel Crohn's disease

Cross sectional Imaging plays an increasingly important role the diagnosis and management of Crohn's disease. Particular emphasis is placed on MRI and Ultrasound as they do not impart ionising radiation. Both modalities have reported high sensitivity for disease detection, activity assessment and evaluation of extra-luminal complications, and have positive effects on clinical decision making. International Guidelines now recommend MRI and Ultrasound in the routine management of Crohn's disease patients. This article reviews the current evidence base supporting both modalities with an emphasis on the key clinical questions. We describe current protocols, basic imaging findings and highlight areas in need of further research.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

5 Technical Efficacy: Stage 4 J. MAGN. RESON. IMAGING 2017;45:1573-1588.

Gastrointestinal ultrasound in neonates, infants and children. Eur J Radiol. 2014;83:1592-1600. [PMID: 24840480 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejrad.2014.04.016]

Today US plays an important and increasing role in the assessment of many, partially age-specific conditions in the GI tract in neonates, infants and children. Knowledge of the potential capabilities of US and its restrictions together with a skillful performance of GI US examination can provide essential anatomic and functional diagnostic information in many pediatric GI disorders. The aim of this review is to highlight the potential of ultrasound (US) in the evaluation of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract in neonates, infants and children. Basic and potential applications of modern US tools in pediatric GI tract are addressed, the GI US examination technique is discussed - including some common and/or typical clinical applications of and indications for US.