What is Computed Tomography (CT) Enterography?

CT Enterography is a rapid, well-tolerated and accurate test that uses CT scanner technology to aid in the diagnosis and treatment of small bowel abnormalities.  CT Enterography is becoming the modality of choice for the evaluation of suspected inflammatory small bowel disease.  It is an alternative to the traditional small bowel follow through using fluoroscopy in the assessment of small bowel diseases such as Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, celiac disease and small bowel diverticulitis, and in the work-up of other small bowel abnormalities.

This study is capable of visualizing the lumen, mucosa and extra-luminal structures of the small bowel.  CT Enterography provides high contrast resolution, excellent spatial resolution and has multiplanar capabilities.  CT Enterography also allows the assessment of solid organs and provides a global overview of the abdomen.  CT Enterography is ordered as a CT of the abdomen and pelvis, with enterography protocol.

When is CT Enterography indicated?

• Anytime there is clinical concern of small bowel disease
• Evaluation of structural abnormalities of the small bowel
• Inflammation, possibly due to Crohn’s disease, or small bowel diverticulitis
• Masses: carcinoid, lymphoma, gastrointestinal stromal tumor
• GI bleeding with negative endoscopy
• Evaluation of a submucosal mass
• Indeterminate capsule endoscopy