Effect of combined rapid access point-of-care intestinal ultrasound clinic on the management of inflammatory bowel disease

Abstract

Background Intestinal ultrasound (IUS), although less widely practiced in the UK, offers several advantages in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), particularly with regard to the accessibility of the test and immediate availability of reports. Aims To assess the use of point-of-care IUS in influencing management change in IBD. Methods A retrospective service evaluation review of 3 years of a rapid access IUS clinic performed in combination with IBD nurses in a District General Hospital setting. Results A total of 227 examinations were performed on 168 patients. All scans were performed by a consultant radiologist. 162 examinations (79%) were scanned and reported within 2 weeks of referral. 101/227 (44%) had evidence of significant active/obstructing disease, and in patients with known IBD, this rises to 101/185 (55%). Overall, 59.5% (135) of ultrasound examinations resulted in management changes. Conclusion Wider adoption of IUS in a point-of-care setting has the potential to significantly guide patient management in IBD. All data relevant to the study are included in the article or uploaded as supplementary information.