CAMRT Radiography Practice Exam

A patient with a clinical history of regional enteritis is typically scheduled for which procedure?

1. Single contrast barium enema

2. Double contrast barium enema

3. Intubation small bowel series

4. Enteroclysis

The correct answer is: Enteroclysis

Patients with a clinical history of regional enteritis, also known as Crohn's disease, are often scheduled for enteroclysis. This procedure is specifically designed to provide detailed imaging of the small intestine. During enteroclysis, a contrast medium is introduced directly into the small bowel via a catheter that is inserted through the duodenum or jejunum, allowing for optimal visualization of the bowel's mucosal surface. This method is particularly valuable in diagnosing and assessing conditions like regional enteritis, as it can reveal the characteristic lesions, strictures, or abnormalities associated with inflammatory bowel diseases. The direct delivery of contrast into the small intestine provides clearer and more precise images than standard methods, facilitating accurate diagnosis and treatment planning. In contrast, other options fall short in addressing the complexities of enteral pathology. For instance, single and double contrast barium enemas primarily target the lower intestine and are not as effective for evaluating the small bowel conditions. Also, while an intubation small bowel series might assist in visualizing the small intestine, it does not offer the same level of detailed information required for assessing regional enteritis as enteroclysis does.