deck_1666180 Flashcards
What are the main categories of imaging for the GI Tract?
Plain X-raysContrast studiesUltrasoundCross-sectional imagingAngiography
What are the types of X-rays used?
Abdominal and chest
Give four types of contrast studies
Barium swallowBarium enemaBarium meal/follow throughWater soluble contrast studies
Which methods of imaging give the patient a dose of radiation?
X-raysCT scan
What are the risks of radiation?
CarcinogenesisGenetic Developmental risk to foetus in pregnant women
What are contrast studies used to visualise?
Allow us to define hollow viscera
Describe what happens in a barium swallow
Contrast such as barium sulphate (appears opaque on x-rays) is swallowed and fluoroscopy images are taken from multiple angles in order to visualise the oesophagous as it is coated with a thin layer of barium. This process produces gas in the stomach and can be uncomfortable for the patient.
Describe what happens in a barium meal
Barium sulphate is ingested and it allows for the visualisation of the oesophagous, stomach and duodenum – lines the lumen of these structures.
Describe what happens in a barium enema.
Contrast medium is inserted rectally which allows for the visualisation of the colon. Double contrast can also be used to define certain structures (put air in as well).
How does ultrasound work?
Use sound waves to generate an image of subcutaneous body structures.
Why use ultrasound compared to other imaging techniques?Give a disadvantage
Cheap compared to CT adn MRIIs portable Is very user dependent
What are ultrasounds commonly used for medically?
Determines presence of gall stonesDilation of the common bile ductVisualisation of liver, portal vein and appendix.
What is GI angiography and how is it done?
Allows for visualisation of GI blood vesselsPerformed by injecting a radio-opaque contrast intravenously then capture images by CT, MRI and sometimes X-ray.
What does GI angiography allow you to visualise?
AortaSuperior mesenteric arteryCoeliac trunkInferior mesenteric artery and its branches are harder to see
What are the main things that can be seen on an abdominal x-ray?
StomachSmall bowel– has circular folds running around itLarge bowel– has haustra/folds that do not fully circle the circumferenceSoft tissues– liver, spleen, kidneys, psoas muscle, lung basesBones