“Virtual Colonoscopy” Results Are Comparable to Invasive Colonoscopy

October 8th, 2007

In recent years, several large studies have shown that quicker and cheaper “virtual colonoscopy” is a viable alternative to traditional colonoscopy. Although still considered “experimental” and not covered by most insurance for routine screening, the noninvasive X-ray procedure is available for those willing and able to pay the $1,100 cost. Traditional colonoscopy, the “gold standard” for many years, costs roughly $3,000.

Colonoscopy is recommended for persons 50 and over, but most don’t get them unless they are symptomatic. Instead, a sigmoidoscopy may be offered which checks only the lower bowel or intestine by inserting a flexible tube. Perhaps the most unpleasant part of any technique to explore the colon for polyps is drinking laxatives or using enemas to purge the bowel before the procedure.

Colon cancer is the second leading cause of cancer death in the U.S. and is largely avoidable by detecting and removing small polyps before they grow and become cancerous. Each year about 52,000 Americans die of the disease.

The latest study compared two groups of approximately 3,000 persons in each group. One group received traditional colonoscopy and the second one the virtual procedure. Approximately the same number of advanced polyps were found in each group (123 compared to 121).

With virtual colonography, a CT scanner takes a series of X-rays of the colon and creates a computerized 3-D image. A small tube is inserted in the rectum to inflate the colon for better viewing. There is no sedation or recovery time. If polyps are seen, they cannot be removed using this technique. Any significant polyps are then removed the same day using a traditional colonoscopy.

In traditional colonoscopy, a gastroenterologist uses a flexible, thin tube and snakes it through the large intestines. Any polyps spotted are removed in the process. There is a tiny risk of a perforated colon using the traditional procedure, and prompt surgical repair is needed.

The virtual colonoscopy avoids sedation and the risk of colon perforation, but the patient is exposed to radiation. In addition, small, benign polyps cannot be removed. They must be watched and will need to be removed if they grow significantly or become malignant.

If colon cancer screening guidelines are changed as is expected, virtual colonoscopy may be covered by insurance companies in the future. The less invasive procedure may encourage more patients to get checked when they should. Usually, intervals of ten years between examinations are recommended if no polyps are found.

Source:  MSNBC

Entry Filed under: MEDICAL DISCOVERIES, CANCER, SENIORS HEALTH