What is Radiologic small intestine follow-through study, including multiple serial images (List separately in addition to code for primary procedure for upper GI radiologic examination)?
Summary:
Radiologic small intestine follow-through study is a medical procedure used to examine the small intestine for any abnormalities or diseases. It involves taking a series of X-ray images as a contrast material is slowly ingested by the patient, allowing the radiologist to visualize the movement and structure of the small intestine.
Who needs it:
This procedure is recommended for patients who are experiencing unexplained abdominal pain, digestive problems, or other symptoms that may suggest a small intestine disorder or blockage. It can help diagnose conditions such as Crohn's disease, inflammation, tumors, or strictures in the small intestine.
What happens during the procedure:
During the procedure, the patient will be asked to drink a chalky white liquid containing a contrast material, which helps highlight the intestines on X-ray images. The contrast material may have a slightly unpleasant taste and consistency, but it is safe to consume. As the patient drinks the contrast material, the radiologist takes a series of X-ray images at specific intervals to track its movement through the small intestine.
How long the procedure takes:
The length of the procedure can vary depending on the patient's specific case and the radiology department's protocol. Generally, it can take anywhere from 30 minutes to several hours to complete. Some patients may only require one set of images, while others may need multiple sets over the course of several hours.
Benefits:
- Helps identify abnormalities or diseases in the small intestine.
- Provides valuable information for diagnosis and treatment planning.
- Non-invasive alternative to other diagnostic procedures like endoscopy or surgery.
- Allows for visualization of the entire length and structure of the small intestine.
Risks or complications:
Overall, the risks associated with radiologic small intestine follow-through study are minimal. The contrast material used is generally safe and doesn't cause any adverse reactions. However, some patients may experience minor side effects such as bloating, cramping, or temporary diarrhea due to the ingestion of the contrast material. It is important to discuss any known allergies or previous adverse reactions to contrast materials with the healthcare provider prior to the procedure.
Recovery:
Once the procedure is complete, the patient can resume their normal activities unless directed otherwise by the healthcare provider. In some cases, patients may experience temporary changes in bowel habits due to the contrast material, but these should resolve on their own within a day or two. The radiologist will analyze the images and provide a report to the referring physician, who will discuss the results and further steps with the patient.
Symptoms for Radiologic small intestine follow-through study, including multiple serial images (List separately in addition to code for primary procedure for upper GI radiologic examination)
The radiologic small intestine follow-through study is a medical procedure that involves the use of multiple serial images to evaluate the small intestine. It is often performed as part of an upper gastrointestinal (GI) radiologic examination.
During the procedure, a contrast material, such as barium sulfate, is ingested orally. The patient is then positioned under a fluoroscope, which is a special X-ray machine that enables real-time imaging. The radiologist takes a series of X-ray images at regular intervals as the contrast material travels through the esophagus, stomach, and into the small intestine.
The symptoms that may indicate the need for a radiologic small intestine follow-through study include:
1. Abdominal pain: Patients experiencing chronic or unexplained abdominal pain that could be related to the small intestine may require this procedure. The imaging helps identify any abnormalities, such as strictures, obstructions, or inflammation.
2. Gastrointestinal bleeding: If a patient presents with blood in their stool or has ongoing gastrointestinal bleeding of unknown origin, a small intestine follow-through study can help identify the source and location of the bleeding within the small intestine.
3. Malabsorption issues: Symptoms like unexplained weight loss, chronic diarrhea, or nutrient deficiencies may necessitate this study. It can help detect conditions such as celiac disease, Crohn's disease, or small intestine bacterial overgrowth (SIBO) that can cause malabsorption.
4. Bowel obstruction: Patients with suspected small bowel obstruction may require a small intestine follow-through study. Symptoms may include severe abdominal pain, bloating, vomiting, constipation, and the inability to pass gas or stool.
5. Suspected strictures or abnormalities: If there is a suspected narrowing (stricture) or abnormality in the small intestine, such as tumors or polyps, this study can provide detailed images to aid in diagnosis and treatment planning.
By performing the radiologic small intestine follow-through study with multiple serial images, healthcare professionals can observe the contrast material's progress through the digestive system and detect any abnormalities. It allows for a non-invasive evaluation of the small intestine, aiding in the diagnosis and management of various gastrointestinal conditions.
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