ABSTRACT
The cross-sectional imaging techniques, computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging, are gradually replacing the conventional radiological studies in the evaluation of patients with inflammatory bowel disease, because they allow a comprehensive evaluation of the abdomen. In most cases of acute abdomen, the radiological diagnosis depends on the gas pattern distribution (i.e., gas distribution in dilated and non-dilated loops, and the presence of gas in the peritoneum). Radiological evaluation of these patients usually includes intestinal transit examination, since more than 70% of patients have involvement of the small intestine. The small intestinal transit test generally shows no changes in UC. Endoscopic methods are commonly used to assess the stomach, the esophagus, the colon and the distal portion of the small intestine. However, to assess the remainder of the small intestine, as well as CD complications, imaging methods are the main tool.
