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The stepladder sign is a radiological finding observed in the context of small bowel obstruction on abdominal X-rays or computed tomography scans. It refers to the appearance of multiple, dilated small bowel loops arranged in a step-like configuration, typically visible in upright or lateral decubitus imaging positions.
Dilated bowel loops: Loops proximal to the obstruction exhibit dilation (>2.5-3 cm in diameter). Transition zone: A point where the caliber of the bowel changes from dilated to collapsed, indicating the site of obstruction. Air-fluid levels: Seen in upright or decubitus imaging, reflecting stasis of luminal contents.
Bowel obstruction, also known as intestinal obstruction, is a mechanical or functional obstruction of the intestines which prevents the normal movement of the products of digestion. [2] [5] Either the small bowel or large bowel may be affected. [1] Signs and symptoms include abdominal pain, vomiting, bloating and not passing gas. [1]
Ultrasound and computed tomography (CT) imaging of the abdomen can confirm the diagnosis by demonstrating dilated loops of intestine with material in the intestinal lumen with bubbles. [1] Air-fluid levels may be seen in those affected by DIOS. [1]
The opposed walls of adjacent bowel loops form the central cleft while the two sides of the bean represent gas‐filled segments of dilated bowel that form an inverted U‐shape. [2] Air-fluid levels may also be seen in the segments of dilated bowel. [1]
Volvulus causes severe pain and progressive injury to the intestinal wall, with accumulation of gas and fluid in the portion of the bowel obstructed. [11] Ultimately, this can result in necrosis of the affected intestinal wall, acidosis, and death. This is known as a closed-loop obstruction because there exists an isolated ("closed") loop of bowel.
Chilaiditi syndrome is a rare condition when pain occurs due to transposition of a loop of large intestine (usually transverse colon) in between the diaphragm and the liver, visible on plain abdominal X-ray or chest X-ray. [1] Normally this causes no symptoms, and this is called Chilaiditi's sign. The sign can be permanently present, or ...
Suspected bowel obstruction or gastrointestinal perforation; Abdominal x-ray will demonstrate most cases of bowel obstruction, by showing dilated bowel loops. [1] Foreign body in the alimentary tract; can be identified if it is radiodense. [1] Suspected abdominal mass [1]