Audit of upper gastrointestinal tract series examinations for diagnosing intestinal malrotation in a resource-limited radiology department in Southern Africa

Abstract

Background

Intestinal malrotation is a congenitally acquired condition of abnormally rotated proximal small bowel in neonates and infants. Prompt recognition prevents lifethreatening complications. A structured approach to diagnosing malrotation at UGIS is required for accurate diagnosis.

Objectives

Retrospective analysis of the images and radiological reports of UGIS, with the aim of identifying potential shortfalls in diagnosing malrotation. A secondary objective is to formulate a reporting template to improve overall quality of UGIS reports, specifically in cases of suspected malrotation.

Method

Identification and retrospective review of UGIS studies which were subsequently re-read by a blinded consultant radiologist using the proposed reporting template adapted from the literature.

Results

367 UGIS studies between 1 January 2016 and 31 December 2021 were included in the study cohort, which were then re-read. Using McNemar's chi-square test, we found discrepancy between the number of studies positive for malrotation on the original reports versus the re-read studies, highlighting shortfalls in our current practise.

Conclusion

A structured approach is paramount to the correct diagnosis of malrotation at UGIS. The position of the DJ-flexure (on frontal and lateral projections) proves most sensitive and specific in the diagnosis of malrotation at UGIS. Dedicated true lateral images were often found to be excluded in daily practise. We propose a structured inclusive reporting template.

Contribution

Our proposed standardized reporting template aims to improve radiological, clinical, and surgical outcomes at UGIS, specifically in patients with suspected malrotation.