Studies endorse 'virtual colonoscopy'

Having an X-ray to look for signs of colon cancer may soon be an option for those who dread the traditional scope exam. Two of the largest studies yet of "virtual colonoscopy" show the experimental technique works just as well at spotting potentially cancerous growths as the more invasive method. It's also quicker and cheaper. The X-rays can help sort out who really needs the full exam and removal of suspicious growths, called polyps.

In one study, only 8 percent of patients had to have followup traditional colonoscopies, which are done under sedation and carry a small risk of puncturing the bowel. But what some people consider the most unpleasant part can't be avoided: drinking laxatives to purge the bowel so growths can be seen.

A second, federally funded study at 15 sites around the country is meant to be the definitive test of virtual colonoscopy. Results have not been published, but they show the test to be promising. Colonoscopies are recommended for everyone over 50, but just about half get tested said the New England Journal of Medicine study.

Virtual colonography uses a CT scanner to take a series of X-rays of the colon and a computer to create a 3-D view. A small tube is inserted in the rectum to inflate the colon so it can be more easily viewed. A radiologist then checks the images for suspicious polyps. Since the patient isn't sedated, there's no recovery time required. A traditional colonoscopy at a hospital is $3,300 and more if polyps are removed; virtual colonoscopy costs $1,186. Insurers pay about 40 percent of that charge, Pickhardt said. Most insurance companies don't cover virtual colonoscopy for screening but that could change if colon cancer screening guidelines endorse it. Virtual screenings are already available at some hospitals and centers for people willing to pay for it.

Bonnie - it is about time! We have been touting Virtual Colonoscopy for five years. The reason this has been so hush, hush is because it is so much cheaper than the conventional method. Now that the research has come out, GI's cannot deny its efficacy.