Colonography by computed tomography.
Computed tomographic colonography ('virtual colonoscopy') has shown promising results in the detection of large (> or = 10 mm) polyps in populations with a high prevalence of polyps. Recent studies in low prevalence populations, however, show variable results in sensitivity, ranging from 55% to 94% for the detection of patients with polyps measuring 10 mm or longer. Therefore questions have been raised about computed tomographic colonography as a screening method, probably the most valuable use of this technique. This article describes possible causes of these remarkable differences as well as advances in computed tomographic colonography.
Florie
Jasper
J
Department of Radiology, Academic Medical Centre, Meibergdreef 9, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands. J.Florie@amc.uva.nl
van Gelder
Rogier E
RE
Stoker
Jaap
J
D001294:Attitude to Health; D003111:Colonic Polyps / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging*; D023881:Colonography, Computed Tomographic / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000379:methods*; D003113:Colonoscopy / Q000379:methods; D015179:Colorectal Neoplasms / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging*; D006801:Humans; D011839:Radiation, Ionizing; D012015:Reference Standards; D012107:Research Design