For Release: May 8, 1997
Contact: Michael J. Bernstein (703) 648-8910
Carolyn J. Loss (703) 648-8928; [email protected]
Virtual Colonoscopy May Be An Effective Test For Colon Cancer
A new technology called virtual colonoscopy, shows great promise in detecting colon cancer, far less invasively than some current testing methods, a South Carolina study concludes. "Virtual colonoscopy is an evolving technology that will one day be a successful means of screening for colon cancer," said Dr. Clive Kay, lead study author and Visiting Associate Professor of Radiology at the Medical University of South Carolina. He noted, however, that further improvements must be made in the technique before it can be used routinely. The results of the study were presented May 5 at the American Roentgen Ray Society's 97th Annual Meeting in Boston, MA.
The procedure takes no more than a few minutes, according to Dr. Kay. The patient lies on a computed tomography (CT) Scan table. The colon is filled with air through a small tube. A limited CT Scan of the abdomen is taken and a computer then reconstructs images based on the CT Scan. The computer program enables the clinician to "fly" though the colon, much like a videogame, Dr. Kay said. Unfortunately, the reconstruction can take 30 - 45 minutes, he said. It's one of the things that needs to be improved before virtual colonoscopy can be used on a widespread basis, according to Dr. Kay.
Unlike conventional colonoscopy, virtual colonoscopy will offer patients several advantages, Dr. Kay said. The patient must be sedated for a colonoscopy. This isn't necessary for virtual colonoscopy, which is much less invasive, Dr. Kay said.
Dr. Kay cautioned that virtual colonoscopy hasn't yet been tested against the current standard (colonoscopy) on a large scale, and that is necessary before virtual colonoscopy can be considered a viable screening alternative. Dr. Kay said this study had demonstrated the early potential of the technique.
The American Roentgen Ray Society, with some 12,000 members, is the first and oldest radiological society in the United States. The society is dedicated to the advancement of medicine through the science of radiology.
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