There are many causes of pediatricbowel obstruction, and imaging plays an important role in the detection and management. Plain radiography is the initial imaging study of choice in many cases and has several advantages, including helping to determine the level of obstruction, detection of free air, and widespread availability. However, other imaging modalities may be used as first-line choices. In patients with suspected intussusception or pyloric stenosis, ultrasound is indicated. In patients in whom malrotation is a concern, an upper gastrointestinal series should be performed to assist in making this diagnosis. Computed tomography, while excellent at detecting abdominal pathology, is often used as a follow-up study when initial imaging (plain radiography or ultrasound) is either equivocal or suggests complex abdominal pathology.
