Examination after Sellink in MRT

The Sellink examination method can also be performed using CT. In this case, the patient must also be fasting and have had a discharge before the bowel can be assessed. He receives contrast medium via a probe and is then pushed into the CT, which takes sectional images of the intestine.

The disadvantage of CT is the relatively high radiation exposure, which does not occur with MRI, since it works with magnetic fields. Therefore, MRI is the preferred imaging method for young people. In principle, however, the intestine can also be assessed well in CT.

X-ray examination according to Sellink

The Sellink examination method is typically performed under radiographic control. X-rays are taken when the probe is inserted over the patient’s nose to check that it is in the correct position. The patient then receives the two contrast media.

During the passage of the contrast medium through the intestine, repeated x-rays are taken to document the spread of the contrast medium. In this way, on the one hand, the motor function of the intestine can be assessed, and on the other hand, constrictions in the intestine, tumor suspicious masses, fistulas, abscesses and other irregularities in the intestinal walls can be detected. The disadvantage of this examination method is the radiation exposure to which the patient is exposed by the X-ray. In order to avoid radiation exposure, the examination can also be performed by means of MRI, which works with a magnetic field and therefore does not produce any radiation that is harmful to health.

Representation of the small intestine

The Sellink examination method is one of the most important diagnostic methods for evaluating the small intestine. Since the small intestine is very long, it cannot be seen completely during a conventional colonoscopy. The Sellink method, however, uses double contrast with a contrast medium to make it clearly visible in X-rays, CT or MRI and to check for abnormalities.

Diseases of the small intestine can be easily detected with this method, which is why the examination is mainly used in cases of suspected chronic inflammatory bowel diseases (Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis). In order for the bowel to be assessed well, the patient must be fasting for the examination and have taken laxatives. Only in this way is the small intestine emptied and clean enough for the contrast medium to adhere well to the intestinal walls.

If there is still stool in the intestine, the images cannot be evaluated well. Due to the large amount of fluid administered to the patient during the examination in the form of contrast medium via a probe, diarrhea, flatulence and abdominal pain may occur temporarily after the examination. However, these usually disappear again within a short time without the need for therapeutic intervention.

Vomiting can also occur if the contrast medium is mistakenly transferred from the intestine to the stomach. A further risk of the examination is an allergic reaction to the contrast medium administered, which can also be dangerous for the patient depending on its severity. However, this is very rare. All in all, the Sellink examination method is a low-risk procedure that offers great diagnostic benefit.