[The value of double contrast colon imaging in inadequate colposcopic diagnosis].

PURPOSE

Prospective evaluation of colon double-contrast enemas in patients with incomplete colonoscopy during routine examination.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

From 1. February 1993 through 31. January 1994 we prospectively evaluated all patients undergoing a double-contrast barium enema following incomplete colonoscopy in the endoscopy unit of the Department of Surgery of the University Hospital Marburg. The examination was carried out using the typical double-contrast technique at least 24 h after colonoscopy. The results of the barium enema were correlated with the findings at colonoscopy with regard to completion of the diagnostic procedure and additional pathological findings.

RESULTS

Of 448 colonoscopies 168 remained incomplete. Sixty patients underwent an additional double-contrast study of the colon. In 43 patients this study was sufficient to complete the diagnostic procedure. Unknown pathological diagnoses were found in 11 patients. In 2 patients an adenocarcinoma and in 9 patients polypoid lesions were detected.

CONCLUSION

After incomplete colonoscopy a double-contrast barium enema should be performed to complete the diagnostic examination of the whole colon and to reveal unknown additional pathological findings.