The sigmoid take-off: An anatomical imaging definition of the rectum validated on specimen analysis.

Background: A pre-operative imaging landmark to define the rectum would optimise clinical care of rectal cancer patients and research efforts to improve outcomes. The sigmoid take-off has been suggested as an imaging landmark for the rectosigmoid junction (RSJ). This study aimed to investigate whether this imaging definition of the rectum was validated by surgical specimen analysis.

Ex vivo specimen MRI and pathology confirm a rectosigmoid mesenteric waist at the junction of the mesorectum and mesocolon.

Aim: Continuity of the mesentery has recently been established and may provide an anatomical basis for optimal colorectal resectional surgery. Preliminary data from operative specimen measurements suggest there is a tapering in the mesentery of the distal sigmoid. A mesenteric waist in this area may be a risk factor for local recurrence of colorectal cancer.

A very persistent chicken bone: two separate perforations from the same foreign object 2 months apart.

A 56-year-old man presented acutely with abdominal pain and raised inflammatory markers. Initial CT images demonstrated acute inflammation in the right upper quadrant surrounding a high-density linear structure. The appearance was of a chicken bone causing a contained small bowel perforation.

Computed tomography colonography: a new threat to the spleen?

We present a rare and previously undocumented potential complication of computed tomography (CT) colonography. CT colonography is a commonly performed investigation with a relatively low risk of complications. While splenic injury is a well-documented complication after colonoscopy, it has never been reported following CT colonography.

Variation in landmarks for the rectum: an MRI study.

Aim: This study aimed to assess the reliability of measurements and bony landmarks for the rectosigmoid junction on MRI.

Method: The staging MRI scans for 100 patients were reviewed. The junction of the mesorectum and mesocolon was used to identify the rectum and sigmoid.