A sentinel loop is a short segment of adynamic ileus close to an intra-abdominal inflammatory process. It is usually identified on abdominal radiography 4 and CT 3.
The sentinel loop sign may aid in localizing the source of inflammation. For example, a sentinel loop in the upper abdomen may indicate pancreatitis or cholecystitis, whilst one in the right lower quadrant may be due to appendicitis 2.
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History and etymology
In 1946, Levita first reported on sentinel loop on supine abdominal radiographs in cases of acute gallbladder disease, acute appendicitis, and subhepatic abscess. In 1950, Grollman applied the sentinel loop as a sign of acute pancreatitis 3.
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