ASGE Annual GI Advanced Practice Provider Course (Virtual) - Day Two | April 2022-19_Abornmal Imaging in GI

19_Abornmal Imaging in GI - Shiels

Pdf Summary

In the article "Imaging in GI: Tests, Clinical Significance, and Impact on Management" by Aaron Shiels, MD, the author discusses common GI imaging studies and their clinical significance in changing management. The article outlines various imaging modalities used in gastroenterology, including ultrasound, X-ray, CT, MRI, nuclear scans, and procedural techniques such as ERCP. Each imaging study is discussed in relation to specific clinical scenarios in which they can impact management.<br /><br />For dysphagia, video swallow and barium esophagram are useful in identifying aspiration and conditions like Zenker's diverticulum and achalasia. Ultrasonography and abdominal CT are valuable in diagnosing cholelithiasis and complicated pancreatitis, respectively. Abdominal CT is also useful in diagnosing gastric volvulus and chronic pancreatitis.<br /><br />In patients with right lower quadrant pain, abdominal CT can indicate acute appendicitis, intestinal angioedema, and Crohn's ileitis. For jaundice, abdominal ultrasound is helpful in identifying intrahepatic or extrahepatic biliary dilation, while abdominal CT and MRCP are utilized for detecting pancreatic cancer with malignant biliary obstruction. ERCP can also be used to identify bile leaks.<br /><br />In cases of obscure GI bleeding, nuclear bleeding scans and CT angiography are utilized to locate areas of abnormal tracer accumulation or extravasation of contrast into the bowel lumen, respectively. Liver ultrasonography and triple phase liver CT are employed to identify hepatocellular carcinoma and liver hemangioma, while contrast-enhanced MRI is used to identify focal nodular hyperplasia with central scar.<br /><br />Overall, this article highlights the importance of different imaging studies in diagnosing and managing various gastrointestinal conditions. Imaging plays a crucial role in guiding appropriate treatment decisions and improving patient outcomes.

Keywords

GI imaging

Clinical significance

Management

Ultrasound

MRI

ERCP

Dysphagia

Cholelithiasis

Pancreatitis