Related Experiment Videos
Extracolonic findings at computed tomography colonography are a challenge
B Ginnerup Pedersen1, M Rosenkilde, T E M Christiansen
1Department of Radiology, Aarhus Amtssygehus, Aarhus University Hospital, Tage Hansensgade 2, DK-8000 Aarhus C, Denmark. ginnerup-kelsen@dadlnet.dk
Gut
|November 25, 2003
Summary
Multidetector array computed tomography colonography (MDCTC) frequently reveals extracolonic findings in asymptomatic patients. While 12% require further workup, the high prevalence raises concerns about MDCTC
Area of Science:
- Radiology
- Gastroenterology
- Oncology
Background:
- Colorectal cancer (CRC) surveillance often involves imaging.
- Asymptomatic patients require careful evaluation for incidental findings.
Purpose of the Study:
- To prospectively assess extracolonic findings from MDCTC in CRC surveillance.
- To determine the diagnostic and clinical consequences of these incidental findings.
Main Methods:
- Prospective evaluation of 75 asymptomatic patients undergoing MDCTC for CRC surveillance.
- Independent image review for extracolonic abnormalities.
- Review of patient records to track diagnostic workup and outcomes.
Main Results:
- Extracolonic abnormalities were found in 65% of patients.
- 12% of patients required additional diagnostic workup.
- 3% of patients underwent surgery due to findings or workup complications.
Conclusions:
- MDCTC detects numerous extracolonic findings in asymptomatic patients.
- The high rate of incidental findings necessitates further workup for a small subset.
- The clinical utility and cost-effectiveness of MDCTC as a screening tool are questionable due to these findings.