Virtual colonoscopies, using a three-dimensional computed tomography colonography, is a non-invasive procedure for colorectal cancer screening and as accurate as the traditional very invasive procedure, according to the conclusion of a study conducted by University of Wisconsin researchers. "Virtual colonoscopy produces precise and detailed 3-D fly-through images of the entire colon's interior without having to insert a scope -- there is essentially no risk of bleeding or of perforating the colon," stated Dr. Perry J. Pickhardt.
Virtual colonoscopies take an estimated ten minutes to perform, as the patient passes through a scanning machine. The researchers suggest that this new way of testing might bring more reluctant patients -- who avoid the invasive and uncomfortable colonoscopies available now -- in to be screened. Oh, ya think? Virtual colonoscopy is the screening test I would choose. Who wouldn't? Of course, if polyps or cancers are found, they must be removed by optical colonoscopy.
I cannot imagine anyone who would forego a colonoscopy if they can be offered the virtual colonoscopy screening. I certainly hope this becomes a standard in every part of the country.
To learn more about virtual colonoscopies, visit Viatronix.
1. Having had a colonoscopy myself I think the virtual option is a good one. However I'd be interested to know if the preparation is the same (i.e. taking laxitives). The procedure wasn't too bad, but it was the preparation that I really didn't like.
Also the benefit of having a normal colonoscopy is that if polyps are found then they can generally be removed at the same time which is a bonus.
Posted at 12:05AM on Oct 26th 2006 by Simon