Overview

Specialty-trained gastrointestinal radiologists offer computed tomography enterography (CTE) and magnetic resonance enterography (MRE) to evaluate the small intestine.

The noninvasive procedures use both intravenous and oral contrast with computed tomography or magnetic resonance to create detailed cross-sectional imaging of the small intestine, the surrounding mesentery, vasculature and other adjacent structures. 

Computed tomography enterography (CTE) is non-invasive, accurate, and useful in identifying problems within the bowel. Magnetic resonance enterography (MRE) is a non-invasive medical imaging procedure that uses a magnetic field rather than ionizing radiation.

CTE and MRE are especially well-suited to:

  • Evaluate known or suspected inflammatory bowel disease, including Crohn’s disease
  • Determine an etiology for occult gastrointestinal bleeding
  • Assess small bowel lesions

These procedures may also be indicated for occult gastrointestinal bleeding or to assess for focal small bowel pathology, or identify tumors within the intestinal wall or lesions not visible with standard endoscopy or capsule endoscopy within the bowel lumen.