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Helical CT pneumocolon to assess colonic tumors: radiologic-pathologic correlation
1Department of Medical Imaging, The Middlesex Hospital, University College Hospitals Trust, London, United Kingdom.
AJR. American Journal of Roentgenology
|June 3, 1998
Summary
Helical CT pneumocolon accurately stages colonic carcinomas, achieving 79% overall accuracy. This imaging technique is valuable for determining the extent of colorectal cancer, aiding treatment decisions.
Area of Science:
- Radiology
- Oncology
- Gastroenterology
Background:
- Colorectal cancer staging is crucial for treatment planning.
- Accurate preoperative staging of colonic carcinomas impacts patient management and outcomes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the accuracy of helical computed tomography (CT) pneumocolon for staging colonic carcinomas.
- To assess the sensitivity and specificity of CT pneumocolon for detecting serosal infiltration and lymph node involvement.
Main Methods:
- Fifty-two patients with suspected colonic disorders underwent CT pneumocolon.
- Procedures included bowel cleansing, smooth muscle relaxant administration, and rectal air insufflation.
- Two intravenous contrast protocols were utilized, followed by prospective image evaluation and pathological confirmation.
Main Results:
- Diagnostic images were obtained in 47 of 52 patients.
- CT pneumocolon achieved 79% overall staging accuracy for 38 colonic carcinomas.
- Sensitivity for serosal infiltration was 100%, and for lymph node involvement was 56%; specificity was 33% and 95%, respectively.
Conclusions:
- Helical CT pneumocolon demonstrates significant accuracy in staging colonic carcinomas.
- The technique is effective for assessing serosal and lymph node involvement, aiding in treatment stratification.
- CT pneumocolon is a valuable tool in the diagnostic workup of colorectal cancer.