UTILITY OF MULTIDETECTOR COMPUTED TOMOGRAPHY IN SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

Background: Small bowel obstruction (SBO) is a frequent and potentially life-threatening surgical emergency. Prompt and accurate diagnosis is crucial to prevent complications such as ischemia, perforation, and gangrene. Multidetector Computed Tomography (MDCT) has become the imaging modality of choice for evaluating suspected SBO due to its high diagnostic accuracy. The present study aimed to evaluate the diagnostic performance of contrast-enhanced MDCT in detecting small bowel obstruction, identifying its etiology, localizing the transition point, and predicting complications, in correlation with intraoperative ndings. Methods: A prospective observational study was conducted on 50 patients with clinically suspected SBO from June 2023 to November 2024. Contrast-enhanced MDCT was performed using standardized protocols. Imaging ndings were compared with intraoperative outcomes to assess diagnostic accuracy, sensitivity, specicity, and predictive values. Results: MDCT achieved 100% sensitivity in detecting SBO and showed 90% concordance with surgical ndings for etiology. Sensitivity and specicity were 90% and 98.55%, respectively. Perfect diagnostic accuracy (100%) was achieved for mass lesions and volvulus. CT correctly identied the transition zone in all bowel segments. Delayed imaging (>24 hours) was signicantly associated with ischemia and gangrene (p = 0.024). Etiological patterns varied with BMI, and postoperative complications were more frequent in delayed cases. Conclusion: MDCT is a rapid, precise, and indispensable tool for diagnosing SBO, enabling early intervention, reducing complications, and guiding surgical management. Early imaging signicantly enhances outcomes.