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Can a CT scan detect a ruptured intestine?

2026-02-01 20:45:26 · · #1

Intestinal rupture can be definitively diagnosed via CT scan, which can clearly show the extent and location of the rupture, as well as any complications. Treatment methods include surgical repair, anti-infection therapy, and nutritional support; the specific plan will be tailored to the degree of injury and the patient's condition.

1. The role of CT scan

CT scans are currently one of the commonly used methods for diagnosing intestinal rupture. They are high-resolution and non-invasive, allowing doctors to observe changes in intestinal wall morphology and density, as well as indirect signs such as gas or fluid accumulation in the abdominal cavity. Through CT images, doctors can accurately determine whether the intestinal wall has ruptured, the location and size of the rupture, and the extent of involvement of surrounding tissues. For complex intestinal injuries, CT scans can also help assess whether emergency surgical intervention is necessary.

2. The main causes of intestinal rupture

Intestinal rupture can be caused by a variety of factors, including trauma, infection, intestinal obstruction, and tumors. Trauma such as abdominal impact or puncture can directly lead to intestinal wall rupture; infection such as purulent peritonitis can cause intestinal wall necrosis; in intestinal obstruction, increased intestinal pressure can cause ischemic rupture of the intestinal wall; and tumor infiltration of the intestinal wall can also lead to increased tissue fragility.

3. Surgical treatment plan

Intestinal rupture usually requires surgical treatment, including intestinal resection and anastomosis, enterostomy, and laparoscopic repair. Intestinal resection and anastomosis is suitable for localized ruptures with healthy surrounding tissues; enterostomy is suitable for cases with severe infection or concurrent damage to other organs; and laparoscopic repair is a minimally invasive procedure suitable for minor ruptures where the patient's condition permits.

4. Anti-infective treatment

Intestinal rupture is often accompanied by a risk of infection, requiring the use of broad-spectrum antibiotics such as cephalosporins, quinolones, or carbapenems for prevention or treatment. The type and dosage of antibiotics should be adjusted based on bacterial culture and drug sensitivity test results to ensure treatment effectiveness.

5. Nutritional support management

Postoperative patients require parenteral or enteral nutrition support for recovery. Parenteral nutrition is suitable for patients whose intestinal function has not recovered, providing nutrients such as glucose, amino acids, and fat emulsions; enteral nutrition is suitable for patients whose intestinal function has partially recovered, and can be administered via nasogastric tube or jejunostomy tube to promote intestinal mucosal repair.

Early diagnosis and timely treatment of intestinal rupture are crucial. CT scans are key to accurate diagnosis. A comprehensive treatment plan that combines surgery, anti-infection treatment, and nutritional support can effectively improve the patient's recovery rate and reduce the risk of complications.

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