[Virtual colonoscopy is now reality].
Virtual colonoscopy involves a helical CT or MR scan of the abdomen and pelvis to detect colorectal polyps and cancer. Both modalities have shown promising sensitivity in revealing larger polyps, in comparison with colonoscopy. Caution should be exercised in its clinical implementation due to significant interobserver variation and individual learning curves. A Danish study indicates that CT colonography (CTC) can be performed cost-effectively compared to colonoscopy. CTC is recommended in preference to double-contrast barium enema after incomplete colonoscopy.
Pedersen
Bodil Ginnerup
BG
Arhus Universitetshospital, Arhus Sygehus, Radiologisk. ginnerup-kelsen@dadlnet.dk
Achiam
Michael P
MP
Arnesen
Regnar Bøge
RB
D002983:Clinical Competence; D003111:Colonic Polyps / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging; D023881:Colonography, Computed Tomographic / Q000191:economics / Q000379:methods*; D003113:Colonoscopy; D003362:Cost-Benefit Analysis; D006801:Humans; D008279:Magnetic Resonance Imaging; D008403:Mass Screening / Q000191:economics / Q000379:methods; D015588:Observer Variation; D012680:Sensitivity and Specificity; D014057:Tomography, X-Ray Computed