[A clinical-radiological investigation concerning the accuracy of diatrizoate (Gastrografin) in the demonstration of anastomosis dehiscence and perforation of the gastro-intestinal tract (author's transl)].

A Gastrografin test is described for diagnosing perforations and dehiscence of anastomoses in the gastro-intestinal tract by carrying out a simple urine analysis. False positive and false negative results can be avoided by obtaining radiographs of urine samples under standard conditions. The accuracy of the method was checked in 97 patients by comparing the results of the urine analysis with radiographic examinations and with the clinical course. From this, it appears that the test is reliable, simple and capable of being used anywhere. The test is therefore recommended a) where there is a lack of radiographic facilities, b) for immobile patients, c) where there is clinical suspicion of a perforation or dehiscence of an anastomosis in the absence of radiographic findings and d) in individual cases where the radiographic changes are positive.