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.
Department of Radiology, Academic Medical Centre, Meibergdreef 9, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands. J.Florie@amc.uva.nl
Jasper
J
Florie
Rogier E
RE
van Gelder
Jaap
J
Stoker
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