Role of Value of multi-slice computed tomography in the diagnosis of intestinal obstruction

Abstract

Objective: To evaluate the efficacy of multi-slice computed tomography (CT) in diagnosing intestinal obstruction.

Research subjects and methods: This cross-sectional descriptive study included 84 patients diagnosed with intestinal obstruction via CT scans consisting of 16 or more rows. These patients underwent surgical treatment at Viet Duc Friendship Hospital between February and November 2022.

Results: Among the 84 patients diagnosed with intestinal obstruction on CT, with an average age of 52.9 ± 12.2 years and a male/female ratio of 47/37, the sensitivity for diagnosing intestinal obstruction was 100%, with an accuracy of 96.4%. The specificity for identifying the causes of intestinal obstruction such as tumors, food residue, adhesions, and hernias exceeded 90%. The specificity for identifying the location of small bowel obstruction was 80.9%, while for large bowel obstruction, it was 100%. The sensitivity of CT in diagnosing obstruction in the left colon and rectum was 50%, while for other locations, it exceeded 80%. Conclusion: Multi-slice CT has an important role in the evaluation and management of suspected intestinal obstruction. CT demonstrates high sensitivity and accuracy in diagnosing intestinal obstruction, particularly in identifying its cause and location, as well as assessing the condition of the intestinal loop, thereby facilitating appropriate treatment decisions