Radiological examination of the colon resected for neoplastic pathology in the study of complications and recurrence of the disease

After resection for cancer of the large bowel, because of high incidence of recurrences, careful radiological examinations must be performed during the follow-up. From the experience of more than 1800 X-ray examinations, after large bowel surgery, the authors describe the roentgen findings, pointing out pathological changes. Roentgenographic findings are distinguished considering the interval between surgery and X-ray examinations (early surveys and late surveys) and their site (anastomosis, residual colonic loops, perivisceral tissues). The main diagnostic problem usually arises in the late surveys at the anastomosis where is often difficult to distinguish a late surgical complication from a neoplastic relapse. This diagnosis is easier by comparison with films from early postoperative examinations. If they are not available correct diagnosis is yet often possible looking for some radiological signs which are carefully described.