Systematic Review: Ultrasound Goes Echo-Decarbonising Inflammatory Bowel Disease Care Through Intestinal Ultrasound.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a chronic, resource-intensive condition requiring repeated diagnostic assessments. Healthcare contributes ~5% of global greenhouse gas emissions, and key diagnostic tools in IBD-gastrointestinal (GI) endoscopy, computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)-are associated with substantial environmental impacts. The environmental burden of these diagnostic pathways, however, remains underappreciated.

Aim

To systematically assess the carbon footprint and environmental impact of diagnostic imaging modalities commonly used in IBD, with particular focus on intestinal ultrasound (IUS) as a sustainable, low-carbon alternative.

Methods

A systematic review was conducted according to PRISMA 2020 guidelines. PubMed, S

SUBMITTER: Massironi S 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12543338 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Nov

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature