MRI scans are more accurate than ultrasound for assessing Crohn's disease

Both magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and ultrasound scans work well  for staging and monitoring Crohn’s disease but MRI is more accurate, research found.

Researchers compared a form of MRI that includes an oral contrast agent with ultrasound scans. They aimed to see which was better able to detect the presence and extent of active disease in the small bowel.

While both tests performed well, MRI was 10 percent more accurate for correctly classifying small bowel disease.

The METRIC trial involved 284 participants from eight NHS hospitals, including 26 from Oxford's John Radcliffe Hospital. 

Visit the NIHR Dissemination Centre website for more information.