Ultrasound for Inflammatory Bowel Disease in Gastroenterology;an Introduction to Basic Technique and Image Interpretation

Abstract

Bowel ultrasound is often considered as a relatively specialist technique and a lot of sonographers shy away from it, perhaps fearing ridicule from experts in the field. However, as ultrasound becomes more available, and as a wider range of practitioners (like myself) achieve competence, the taboos of specialist ultrasound techniques are being broken down. This paper is a guide to the technique and application of bowel ultrasound for the new or novice practitioner which aims to provide a solid understanding of the technique upon which to build with further experience.

Background: Dr Dixon is a medical gastroenterologist (non-radiologist) who has undertaken training and achieved a postgraduate certificate in medical ultrasound. He sees the role of ultrasound for the gastroenterologist, as a direct extension of clinical history taking and a medical examination. With inflammatory bowel disease a common presentation to gastroenterology clinics, he feels that the ability to use ultrasound to scan patients in a safe and reliable way is invaluable. Dr Dixon uses bowel ultrasound as an extended examination and challenges all, with a bit of practice, to embrace the technique and advance their skills. He believes if he can do it… so can everyone else.