Fluoroscopic techniques for the interrogation of IBD patients

Fluoroscopic imaging of the gut has provided critical information for the care of inflammatory bowel disease patients since the days of Dr. Burrill Crohn. With the advent of new optical and cross-sectional imaging techniques, biologic and immunologic therapies, and surgical techniques, the role of fluoroscopy in inflammatory bowel disease management has evolved. This chapter reviews different types of fluoroscopic exams, their strengths and weaknesses, with an emphasis on highlighting unique information they provide compared to cross-sectional alternatives. Radiographic signs indicating active, penetrating, and obstructive disease are reviewed, with diagnostic pitfalls in cross-sectional imaging that can be addressed with fluoroscopic exams highlighted. The complementary role of fluoroscopy to optical and cross-sectional imaging techniques is discussed throughout.