Gastrointestinal Tract Perforation in the Newborn and Child: Imaging Assessment

Semin Ultrasound CT MR. 2016 Feb;37(1):54-65. doi: 10.1053/j.sult.2015.10.001. Epub 2015 Oct 9.

Abstract

Gastrointestinal tract perforation can arise from various underlying etiologies ranging from congenital causes to ingested foreign bodies in the pediatric patient population. Imaging assessment in patients with suspected gastrointestinal tract perforation plays a central role in making the diagnosis and follow-up evaluation. This article reviews the more common etiologies of gastrointestinal tract perforation in pediatric patients, their imaging manifestations, and strategies for imaging assessment to assist the radiologist in arriving at a timely and accurate diagnosis.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Emergency Medical Services / methods
  • Female
  • Foreign Bodies / diagnostic imaging*
  • Gastrointestinal Diseases / diagnostic imaging*
  • Gastrointestinal Tract / injuries*
  • Gastrointestinal Tract / radiation effects*
  • Humans
  • Image Enhancement / methods
  • Infant
  • Infant, Newborn
  • Infant, Newborn, Diseases / diagnostic imaging
  • Intestinal Perforation / diagnostic imaging*
  • Male
  • Radiography, Abdominal / methods
  • Tomography, X-Ray Computed / methods*