Computer tomographic colonography (virtual colonoscopy). A new method for the early detection of colorectal cancer

D. Xinopoulos; M. Stasinopoulou; K. Tsamakidis; D. Dimitroulopoulos; M. Andriotis; E. Archavlis; M. Kontou; A. Tavernaraki; E. Paraskevas

Authors D. Xinopoulos, M. Stasinopoulou, K. Tsamakidis, D. Dimitroulopoulos, M. Andriotis, E. Archavlis, M. Kontou, A. Tavernaraki, E. Paraskevas.

Abstract

Background: Colorectal cancer (CRC) and its precursors lesions (polyps) consist a world-wide health problem. Many screening tests are available, but none has gained universal approval. Recently, a new non-invasive technique (virtual colonoscopy V.C.) was developed, that uses computerized reconstructed images of computer tomography. There are some reports with good results in detecting neoplasias of the colon.

Aim: To evaluate the effectiveness of V.C. in detecting CRC or polyps.

Material and Methods: Forty-eight patients (30 males and 18 females, mean age 64 years) underwent V.C. at "Ag. Savvas" anticancer Hospital. The findings of V.C. were compared with those of a recent colonoscopy.

Results: At colonoscopy 14 CRC and 48 polyps were found. All lesions were detected by V.C. The two tests were also in accordance concerning the size and location of the lesions. Additionally, V.C. was able to evaluate colon wall invasion in case of CRC.

Conclusions: V.C. is an effective method of colorectal screening.