Quality improvement initiative to increase consistent use of intraluminal contrast in the identification of anastomotic bowel leaks on computed tomography, using the plan-do-study-act service approach

Historically, radiological evaluation for potential anastomotic leaks consisted of fluoroscopic examinations using positive intraluminal contrast. As technology has changed, this evaluation is now mainly performed with computed tomography (CT). Identification of intraluminal contrast outside the bowel is the most specific imaging finding for diagnosing anastomotic leaks. However, the use of oral or rectal contrast agents varies among radiology practices. (author)