Crohn’s & Colitis Glossary

Diagnostic Scan

Colonoscopy

A test that allows doctors to examine the colon (large intestine) by inserting a long, flexible tube with a camera through the opening of your anus.

Diagnostic Scan

Computed Tomography Enterography (CTE)

This is a type of CT scan where the patient swallows a special contrast to give a better view of the intestines.

Diagnostic Scan

Computerized Tomography (CT)

This scan uses X-rays to create detailed three-dimensional images of the body that can show inflammation or complications related to IBD.

Diagnostic Scan

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)

A body scan that uses magnets (instead of X rays) to create a three-dimensional picture of the inside of the body.

Diagnostic Scan

Ultrasound

An imaging test in which high-frequency sound waves, not heard by the human ear, are transmitted through body tissues using a transducer, relaying pictures to a computer for display.

Diagnostic Scan

Upper endoscopy

A procedure that uses a small endoscope with a light and camera inserted down your throat to look inside the esophagus, stomach, and first part of the small intestine.

Diagnostic Scan

Video capsule endoscopy

A procedure that allows your doctor to view areas of the small intestine that cannot be reached with traditional scopes or imaging tests. This involves swallowing a capsule (pill)that is equipped with a camera. As it travels through the intestines, the capsule automatically takes pictures that are transmitted into a recorder that you wear around your body.