Ileus and intestinal obstruction--ultrasonographic findings as a guideline to therapy.

Between September 1, 1982 and January 31, 1986, a study was undertaken in a total of 111 patients to assess the efficacy of ultrasonography in diagnosing intestinal obstruction and ileus. In 109 cases (98%), ultrasonography provided the correct diagnosis. In one case, obstruction was correctly suspected. In another case, the diagnosis was false negative. In 51 cases (46%), ultrasonography yielded the causative diagnosis. Ultrasonography was especially rewarding in the diagnosis of X-ray-negative intestinal obstruction, very high obstruction, clinically concealed incarcerated femoral hernias and in the differentiation of intestinal obstruction and ileus in the postoperative course. Ultrasonographic differential diagnosis was a reliable guideline for adequate treatment modalities in pertinent cases, thus contributing to therapeutic success.