Review the different imaging techniques used for diagnosing small bowel obstruction (SBO). Propose a comprehensive approach to determine the site, level, cause and severity of obstruction.

If acute SBO is suspected, MDCT is the technique of choice as it does not require oral contrast material and is a rapid, non-invasive, and readily available technique. CE-MDCT can even provide information about complications like strangulation or perforation, and its multiplanar reconstructions may help identify and characterize the cause of obstruction when axial findings are indeterminate. We will discuss and illustrate the several causes of mechanical SBO proposing a schematic approach.

Although SBO is a common clinical condition, an accurate diagnosis is imperative, as it can determine the proper treatment, surgical or medical, and establish the prognosis of the patient depending on the cause and presence of complications.