S1793 Perceptions and Barriers to the Use of Intestinal Ultrasound in Inflammatory Bowel Disease: A Survey of Gastroenterologists in Panama

Introduction: Intestinal ultrasound (IUS) is a validated, non-invasive modality for real-time assessment and monitoring of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Although widely adopted internationally, its clinical use in Panama remains limited. IUS became locally available in November 2023 at a single private center. This study aimed to assess Panamanian gastroenterologists’ (GIs) awareness, perceptions, and barriers to implementing IUS in clinical practice. Methods: A cross-sectional survey was distributed in May 2025 to 63 members of the Panamanian Gastroenterology Association. The anonymous, self-administered questionnaire explored awareness, knowledge, perceived utility, barriers, and practice intentions regarding IUS. Responses were analyzed descriptively and by subgroup based on years of experience, IBD patient volume, and reported barriers. Results: Thirty-one GIs responded (response rate: 49.2%). Most practiced in mixed public-private settings (61.3%) and 71% had more than 10 years of experience. Only 16.1% reported seeing multiple IBD patients per week. While 96.8% were aware of IUS, only 48.4% reported detailed knowledge, and 67.7% knew it was available locally. Most respondents (87.1%) believed patients prefer non-invasive monitoring tools, and 90.3% agreed that IUS could complement or replace other modalities in selected cases. Despite this, only 25.8% intended to pursue IUS training, and 58.1% planned to refer patients. Nearly half (51,6%) reported barriers to IUS use, namely: lack of trained personnel (19.4%), cost (12.9%), clinical inertia (12.9%), and unawareness of availability (6.5%). Subgroup analysis revealed respondents who reported no barriers had been in practice longer (76.9%), had greater IUS knowledge (53.8%) and were more likely to refer patients (84.6%) but saw fewer patients with IBD and were less likely to pursue training (15.4%). Conclusion: Despite high awareness and positive perceptions, a knowledge-practice gap limits IUS implementation in Panama. Training initiatives, clinical exposure, and improved access are essential to support broader adoption of this valuable tool in IBD care especially amongst younger GIs and those who see more patients with IBD.