OBJECTIVE: To review small bowel contrast examinations in order to identify the main findings and to determine the actual benefits to the patient. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This was a retrospective and descriptive study based on data of 60 examinations performed between January, 2001 and June, 2002 at the radiology department of the "Hospital Santa Cruz/Beneficência Portuguesa de Niterói", Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. RESULTS: A total of 60 examinations were reviewed: 24 (40.0%) showed abnormal radiological findings whereas 36 (60.0%) were normal. Thirty-six patients (60%) were between 35 and 65 years of age, only two (3.32%) were below 18 years and the oldest patient was 87 years. CONCLUSION: In spite of the new diagnostic imaging modalities such as endoscopy, small bowel contrast examinations are unlikely to fall into disuse and may remain the modality of choice for the investigation of this segment of the intestines. Therefore, we should keep in mind that small bowel contrast examinations and endoscopy are complementary rather than alternative methods when the advantages and disadvantages of each method are considered. Contrast examination of the small bowel is still an important and valuable method for the investigation of this segment of the intestines.

Keywords: Small bowel diseases, Contrast examinations, Differential diagnosis