Checking the condition of the intestine when colonoscopy is contraindicated. Colonoscopy can replace Computed tomography, virtual tomography and MRI

In order to understand the benefits and the right choice of research methods, you must first understand how the diagnosis and examination of the intestine is carried out. There are several methods, each with its own advantages and purpose. Rectoscopy or x-ray, CT or barium enema, MRI of the intestine or colonoscopy - which is better?

Research methods

Modern research methods make it possible to accurately determine the cause of pain in the intestines, thereby providing the attending physician with sufficient information in order to prescribe the correct treatment. An examination or MRI of the intestine is prescribed by the attending physician - these are one of the most popular methods. But today at the disposal of the doctor and the patient there are such studies of the intestine:

• Ultrasound and MRI.
• Irrigoscopy.
• Sigmoidoscopy, invagination.
• Rectoscopy.
• Colonoscopy and endoscopy.
• CT scan.
• Virtual colonoscopy.
• X-ray.

Each of these methods is aimed at examining different sections of the intestine or covering the entire length of the intestine and digestive tract, but the most commonly used and effective methods are colonoscopy, magnetic resonance imaging, CT, virtual colonoscopy. Which of these studies and why may be preferable is determined by the attending physician.

MRI of the stomach and intestines. Tomography in diagnostics

Allows you to get a three-dimensional image of the intestine. This study is carried out with an empty intestine, therefore, before the procedure, this type of research is prescribed quite rarely, since the intestine is located in several layers, consists of many bends, which greatly complicates its study using this method. Nevertheless, this method is quite popular because it does not require any special preparation, it is fast in emergency situations, and it is the best option for an emergency examination.

Indications for MRI

It is quite difficult to diagnose bowel diseases, since it has several departments and visual examination is difficult. With the help of MRI, benign and at any stage of their development, ulcers, bleeding, congenital anomalies, and stones, obstruction are detected. To identify such disorders and diseases, it is the MRI method that is most effective.

CT scan

A human-assisted study is performed along with the use of MRI. Computed tomography makes it possible to examine the intestine in layers, making fixed pictures. Such images help to view the intestine in all layers and leads, perpendicular to the body, while MRI does not always give an accurate image in the examination of the middle layers. But in order to understand which is better - intestinal CT or colonoscopy, it is necessary to consider all methods in more detail.

Colonoscopy

The colonoscopy method is also often used in the study and diagnosis of bowel diseases. For this, it is used with the help of which the departments of the thick and CCD are examined or with a fiber optic camera. This camera is attached to the end of a flexible tube that is inserted through the anus. This research method is carried out after a cleansing enema. The colonoscopy method helps the doctor visually examine the intestines, assess the condition of the mucous membranes, the presence of erosions and lesions.

Indications for a colonoscopy

Colonoscopy is prescribed for suspected or presence of tumor formations, hemorrhoids, narrowing of the intestinal lumen, prolapse of the intestine, the presence of ulcers and polyps, with proctitis. With the help of the fact that a real color image coming from the camera is transmitted to the screen, it is possible to assess the condition of the mucous membrane and the presence of its damage and lesions in a particular place. Also, using this method, ulcers are cauterized and polyps are removed from intestinal tissues.

To answer the question: “Intestinal MRI or colonoscopy, which is better?”, It is worth considering another innovative method - virtual colonoscopy.

Virtual Colonoscopy

To date, this is the most advanced examination method, since it combines the capabilities of computed tomography and MRI, while creating a three-dimensional projection of the intestine, which is very detailed and convenient for the doctor when examining and examining the intestine. Combining the best modern research technologies, virtual colonoscopy saves patients from undergoing several different examinations.

Pros, cons and risks of different research methods

Bowel MRI or colonoscopy, which is better? The table below will help you understand this in comparison.

Bowel MRI or colonoscopy. What's better?

MRI and CT are fairly accurate, non-invasive and easy imaging modalities for examining different parts of the intestine. However, for its implementation, a sufficiently strong bloating of the intestine is necessary, which is achieved by filling it with water or by taking oral contrast agents. Both of these methods give a good idea of ​​the state of the intestine outside the inner surface. Often the results of MRI studies are the direction for colonoscopy, in order to study in more detail changes in the intestinal mucosa. MRI and CT are diagnostic methods and do not allow examination of the internal mucous membranes, and are not medical procedures and cannot provide the ability to remove polyps or take samples of intestinal tissue.

Colonoscopy reduces the incidence of cancer of the colon and left side of the colon, but is a rather dangerous method with multiple side effects, but at the same time it helps to examine the inner surface of the intestines in detail. It accurately determines their condition, the presence of inflammatory processes, polyps, which cannot be determined with other types of studies. It allows not only to diagnose, but also to remove polyps, preventing their degeneration into cancerous tumors. Cauterization of ulcerative formations and taking samples of the intestinal mucosa for further analysis is another advantage of the colonoscopy method.

Virtual colonoscopy or MRI of the intestines are diagnostic tests. But virtual colonoscopy has a more complete and accurate image. Combines the advantages of both MRI and computed tomography. This is the most modern method for examining the intestines, diagnosing diseases and lesions. However, just like these methods, it does not allow for physical interventions.

When asked which is better, intestinal CT or colonoscopy, doctors believe that the second method is certainly more informative. And it allows a wider range of diseases to be determined by studying the necessary sections and bends and even to remove some diseases during the examination, however, such an advantage of colonoscopy over MRI and CT is detected only in the presence of diseases that are located on the inner walls of the intestine and are visually determined. In the case when the disease or disorder is inside the walls and is not visually determined or is located outside the inner part of the intestine, then research methods such as MRI, computed tomography or virtual colonoscopy have a clear advantage.

Determining the stage of oncological disease is a very important step in diagnosing. It is he who makes it possible to obtain data on the basis of which it is possible to create an effective treatment strategy, evaluate its success, and provide high-quality clinical material for statistical processing. In terms of treatment and prevention of diseases of the colon, colonoscopy is considered a mandatory procedure, but there are other equally effective methods.

The essence of colonoscopy and additional options

Colonoscopy is a study of the inner lining of the intestine, which is performed using a special probe (endoscope) through the rectum. At the tip of the instrument is a small video camera, a light source. The doctor pushes the tube through the entire organ and examines its walls only on the way back. ? Usually no more than half an hour. With its help, you can identify pathologies such as:

• oncological diseases;
• polyps;
• diverticula (specific neoplasms on the internal mucosa of different parts of the intestine);
• infectious diseases, inflammatory processes;
• hemorrhoids (swelling of large veins).

This procedure will also help you take a tissue sample for laboratory testing (biopsy).

Attention! The information on the site is presented by specialists, but is for informational purposes only and cannot be used for self-treatment. Be sure to consult a doctor!

Not all problems with the digestive system or intestines can be detected through laboratory tests. A number of serious pathologies need more accurate confirmation, which requires other methods of examination. These include colonoscopy. Why is this procedure needed and is there an alternative to bowel colonoscopy?

What is a colonoscopy

Colonoscopy is an instrumental study that allows diagnosing pathological conditions of the rectum and colon. An examination is carried out using a colonoscope - a long flexible probe, at the end of which there is an eyepiece with a tiny video camera and a backlight. Also included are biopsy forceps and air tubing. The probe is inserted through the rectum.

The resulting image is transmitted to the monitor and allows the specialist to assess the condition of the intestine throughout its entire length, which is about two meters. The camera takes high-resolution pictures that are magnified tenfold. On the images, the coloproctologist examines the mucosa and notes possible pathological changes.

After the examination, the air introduced into the body is pumped out

In addition, during the examination, a number of actions can be carried out to avoid additional surgical intervention.

These include:

• expansion of the intestine due to scarring;
• tissue sampling for histological studies;
• removal of a foreign body;
• elimination of polyps or benign tumors;
• elimination of bleeding.

Due to the additional features, colonoscopy is considered the most informative and effective diagnostic method.

How is a colonoscopy performed?

A few days before the date of the examination, preparation for the colonoscopy begins. It includes diet and proper bowel cleansing. So, within 2-3 days, the patient must follow a slag-free diet: exclude vegetables, fruits, nuts, meat, cereals and pastries. 20 hours before the study, only water and weak tea are allowed. In order for the study to give the maximum result, it is necessary to remove all feces from the body. An enema or special medications are used for this, which are used a day before the procedure: Fortrans, Lavacol.

In the office, the patient is laid on his left side, his knees pressed against his stomach. The anal area is treated with an antiseptic liquid, if necessary, ointments and gels with an anesthetic are added. The probe is inserted into the rectum and slowly moves into the intestine. The specialist at this time evaluates the condition of the mucosa by displaying on the monitor. If it is necessary to straighten the intestine, air is pumped into the body.

In the absence of pathologies, the procedure takes 10-15 minutes. If a biopsy is needed, an additional portion of anesthetic is injected through the colonoscope channel, and the necessary piece of tissue is cut off using special forceps.

Possible contraindications

Contraindications to colonoscopy are absolute and relative. In addition, in most patients, the study causes negative emotions, and they begin to look for a variety of alternatives. With absolute contraindications, a colonoscopy cannot be performed. These include:

• peritonitis;
• pregnancy;
• heart and lung failure;
• ischemic or ulcerative colitis;
• myocardial infarction;
• severe internal bleeding in the intestines.

With an invasive intervention during colonoscopy, the duration of the procedure depends on the complexity of the pathology

In the case of relative contraindications, the appropriateness of the study is assessed by the attending physician. In some cases, colonoscopy is delayed, but for certain indications, it is carried out with some caution.

Relative contraindications include:

• improper preparation;
• low blood clotting;
• bleeding;
• severe condition of the patient.

If necessary, the examination is performed under general anesthesia, but in most cases anesthesia is not used.

Is there an alternative?

There are alternative methods for examining the condition of the large intestine, which in some cases can replace colonoscopy. They do not cause significant discomfort and are quite accessible, only the degree of information content differs.

In most cases, magnetic resonance imaging is an additional examination method: it is impossible to obtain complete information about the internal state of the mucosa with its help.

In terms of comfort, MRI wins, does not require additional preparation and does not cause discomfort

Usually checked on a tomograph:

• the middle part of the intestine;
• pelvic area;
• terminal sections of the colon.

With the help of MRI with a contrast agent, diseases of the small intestine are well diagnosed: tumors, polyps, inflammation and bleeding areas can be found. In this case, minor changes in the mucosa cannot be detected.

CT scan

CT scans take detailed pictures of the bowel using x-rays. In some ways, this is the best alternative to colonoscopy: the final picture is quite detailed and clear. According to the results, it is computed tomography that is the most approximate research method.

During the examination, the patient simply lies on a special table, and the tomograph platform rotates around the body. The detectors of the apparatus “catch” the X-rays passing through the tissues of the body. The resulting sections are processed by a computer station, the result is a detailed image of the organs.

Irrigoscopy

Irrigoscopy also refers to x-ray research methods that use a contrast agent. Most often, specialists use barium sulfate, which is introduced into the body through the rectum. You can evaluate the elasticity of the walls, the function of the folds, the condition of the mucosa and the functional indicators of the departments of the organ.

Preparation for the procedure includes diet and bowel cleansing. During the examination, a special device, similar to an enema, is inserted into the large intestine. Through this device, the intestines are filled with contrast, after which the first overview image is taken. The patient needs to change position several times in order to obtain a series of sighting and overview shots.

Anoscopy

Anoscopy is an instrumental examination method, thanks to which it is possible to evaluate a certain part of the intestinal surface - a maximum of 15 centimeters. An anoscope is inserted into the intestine - a smooth hollow tube. The lumen is filled with a removable rod, through which the study is carried out.

Anoscopy is a good replacement and is prescribed not only for diagnosing the condition of the mucosa: using the device, you can take tissue or smears for analysis, administer medications, or perform minimally invasive surgical procedures, which are also performed during colonoscopy.

Through sigmoidoscopy, a visual examination of the surface of the lower part of the large intestine is performed. A special device is used for this - a hollow metal tube equipped with an air supply system and a lighting system.

The sigmoidoscope is inserted into the rectum in the same way as a colonoscope

In addition to examination, sigmoidoscopy allows you to perform a number of invasive manipulations - cauterize neoplasms, take tissue samples, get rid of polyps or block minor bleeding. The procedure has the same contraindications as a colonoscopy. In addition, preparation is required, including diet and bowel cleansing.

Capsule endoscopy

It is similar to a colonoscopy, but the data is not obtained through a probe, but from a special miniature capsule. It is equipped with a video camera and a transmitter that allows you to receive signals in real time. The method allows you to explore not only the distal and upper intestinal tract, but also the ileum and jejunum.

The study lasts from 6 to 12 hours

A device is attached to the patient, which registers and records the signals transmitted by the capsule. It must be swallowed with a small amount of water. After that, you can return to any usual business: the examination can be carried out without the supervision of a specialist.

The capsule is excreted from the body on its own, the doctor only needs to give the recording device. Within a few hours, the received data will be deciphered and a diagnosis will be made. The main disadvantage of the procedure is that it is not carried out in all clinics and in most cases it is paid.

Ultrasound procedure

Ultrasound is one of the most comfortable methods of examination, which uses ultrasonic waves. During the procedure, the patient lies on the table, and the specialist drives a special device over the skin. In some cases, a sterile contrast fluid can be used, three conditions of the intestine are assessed: before the fluid is injected, during and after it is removed from the body.

For certain indications, ultrasound is performed by the endorectal method: the cavity sensor is inserted directly into the rectum. Such a study is necessary at the risk of an oncological process in the intestine.

Intestinal MRI or colonoscopy - which is better? This question is very relevant today, both among patients and specialists. It is not so easy to choose the most effective of them, because each of the presented methods for diagnosing the intestine has its own characteristics.

Colonoscopy of the intestine

Colonoscopy is the most reliable way to diagnose the intestines. Another manipulation is called videocolonoscopy, since a thin, flexible fibrocolonoscope is used to perform it. At its end is a micro-chamber. If, as a result of the diagnosis, the doctor detects certain changes, he will be able to take a fragment of the material for a biopsy.

There are the following indications for a colonoscopy:

• detection of intestinal colitis;
• detection of mucosal polyps;
• confirmation of cancer.

Training

To check the intestines with a colonoscopy, you need to properly prepare. The following recommendations must be observed:

How is the procedure carried out

It is forbidden to perform a colonoscopy in patients with severe inflammation of the rectum or hemorrhoidal bleeding. The total duration of the manipulation is 30 minutes. At this time, the patient may feel slight discomfort in the form of bloating, intestinal spasm. Colonoscopy is performed as follows:

1. The patient is given local anesthesia.
2. The specialist gently inserts the colonoscope rectally.
3. Consistently, an examination of the intestinal walls is performed.
4. To prevent the examination from provoking pain, gas is injected into the colon. It expands the curves of the organ under study, and the patient, in turn, feels bloating.

Magnetic resonance imaging

Intestinal MRI is a highly accurate diagnostic method that can detect even minor deviations from the norm in the early stages. MRI is completely safe and painless. Given the complexity, manipulation can last 10-30 minutes. The patient receives the diagnostic results on the same day. The peculiarity of MRI is that it is able to distinguish between soft tissues, and an experienced doctor can easily detect all the separated zones of the organ under study. Tomography is necessary for the following indications:

Training

Before performing a tomography, the following preparatory measures must be performed:

1. Eat dietary food 3 days before the manipulation.
2. Do not eat for 12 hours before the procedure.
3. Clear the bowels with a laxative until clear stools form.

How is it carried out

When performing an MRI, the doctor can give an extremely accurate assessment of the condition of the organ under study. And this is achieved by displaying the image on the monitor. Diagnostics is carried out in this way:

1. The patient must remove all metal products.
2. It is placed on the leaving surface, fixed with special belts.
3. Next, the patient is placed in a tomograph. There, using a magnetic field, the organ under study is scanned.

The duration of the procedure is 1 hour. During this time, the patient can relax and even sleep. The only thing that can bother him is the complete immobility of the body.

Patients are examined on an empty intestine - for this, a cleansing enema is done before the procedure.

Contraindications

An MRI cannot be performed under the following conditions:

1. The patient has built-in, internal metal parts. These include heart pacemakers, dental implants, female intrauterine devices, plates for bone fusion in case of a fracture.
2. First 2 months of pregnancy.
3. Small children will not be able to stay motionless for so long.

Comparative characteristics of colonoscopy and MRI of the intestine

To understand which is better than colonoscopy or MRI, it is necessary to consider the advantages and disadvantages of each of these methods.

Table 1 - Comparison of effective methods for diagnosing the intestine.

So which is better, an MRI or a colonoscopy? MRI is an accurate and easy non-invasive method that can examine different parts of the intestine. But to perform the diagnosis, a strong swelling of the organ under study is required. For this, water or oral contrast agents are used.

Often, the result of an MRI is a referral for a colonoscopy. Thanks to this, you can get a more detailed report on changes in the intestinal mucosa. But MRI does not allow to study the internal mucous membranes, and is not yet a medical manipulation, since it is impossible to remove polyps or son-in-law tissue samples.

If you examine the intestines with a colonoscopy, this will reduce the percentage of cancer incidence. But this method is dangerous because it can lead to the development of numerous side effects. Compared to MRI, colonoscopy allows you to examine the inner surface of the intestines in detail and accurately, determine their exact condition, the presence of inflammation, and polyps. In addition, colonoscopy is not just a diagnostic method, but also a medical procedure, as it allows you to simultaneously remove polyps and take tissue samples for subsequent analysis.

But virtual colonoscopy combines the advantages of MRI and CT. At the same time, the picture obtained as a result of the study is more complete and accurate. Virtual colonoscopy can be attributed to modern methods of intestinal diagnostics. But with its help it is impossible to perform physical interventions.

What to choose: magnetic resonance imaging or colonoscopy? Reviews of doctors show that the second option is better, as it is more informative. In addition, it is fashionable not only to examine the organ, but also to carry out therapeutic measures at the same time. But when the pathological process is located inside the wall and is not visually detected, then it is advisable to use virtual colonoscopy, CT or MRI for diagnosis.

Is it possible to replace MRI colonoscopy?

Is it possible to do an MRI of the intestine instead of a colonoscopy? It is difficult to give a definite answer. The doctor can replace colonoscopy with tomography if the patient is quite emotional about this procedure. And if it is carried out, it will adversely affect the psyche.

MRI colonoscopy can be replaced only if there are no suspicions of serious diseases of the organ under study. If the patient has symptoms that indicate a serious pathology, then colonoscopy cannot be replaced by MRI.

Thanks to MRI, various tumors are detected at any stage of their development, as well as bleeding, ulcers, volvulus, congenital anomalies, stones, and obstruction.