title: Computed tomographic colography and virtual colonoscopy.
abstract: CT colography (CTC) is a powerful new approach to imaging the colorectum and a promising screening tool for the detection of colorectal neoplasia. From data generated by a helical CT scan, CTC uses virtual reality technology to produce highly discriminant two- and three-dimensional images that permit a thorough and minimally invasive evaluation of the entire colorectum. A dynamic CTC display technique from the endoluminal perspective, called cf2virtual colonoscopy,cf1 simulates colonoscopy by "flying" through the three-dimensional colon image. CTC offers potential advantages in diagnostic performance, safety, and patient acceptance over current screening approaches. Although early data suggest excellent colorectal polyp detection rates, this nascent technology will require rigorous clinical investigation and further refinements to assess adequately its place in the endoscopist's armamentarium.
authors.affiliation: Colorectal Neoplasia Clinic, Division of Gastroenterology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota 55905, USA.
authors.forename: D A
authors.initials: DA
authors.lastname: Ahlquist
authors.forename: A K
authors.initials: AK
authors.lastname: Hara
authors.forename: C D
authors.initials: CD
authors.lastname: Johnson
mesh_terms: D001466:Barium Sulfate; D003110:Colonic Neoplasms / Q000175:diagnosis; D003113:Colonoscopy; D003287:Contrast Media; D004733:Enema; D006801:Humans; D007091:Image Processing, Computer-Assisted; D009780:Occult Blood; D011856:Radiographic Image Enhancement; D012812:Sigmoidoscopy; D014057:Tomography, X-Ray Computed; D014584:User-Computer Interface
chemical_list: D003287:Contrast Media; D001466:Barium Sulfate