[Significance of the combination of small intestine enema and ultrasonography in the follow-up of Crohn's disease. Clinical correlations].

: High-resolution US yields important information for the study of Crohn's disease. A more accurate follow-up is possible by the integration of US with radiological and clinical findings. Sixty-two patients with suspected or known Crohn's disease were examined with double-contrast small bowel enema and high-resolution US. The latter allowed the demonstration of such pathologic findings as mesenteric thickness greater than 15 mm, submucosal thickness (third hyperechoic layer greater than 50% of total bowel wall thickness), lymphadenopathies, and fluid collections. The authors suggest that US grading be performed, and radiological correlations made. The combined use of the two techniques yields better results and allows a better assessment of the patients, which is very useful for both prognosis and therapy.