Topic Highlight
Copyright ©2013 Baishideng. All rights reserved.
World J Radiol. Mar 28, 2013; 5(3): 61-67
Published online Mar 28, 2013. doi: 10.4329/wjr.v5.i3.61
Virtual colonoscopy: Utility, impact and overview
Dhakshina Ganeshan, Khaled M Elsayes, David Vining
Dhakshina Ganeshan, Khaled M Elsayes, David Vining, Department of Radiology, University of Texas, MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, United States
Author contributions: Ganeshan D, Elsayes KM and Vining D designed the manuscript; Ganeshan D wrote the paper; Vining D edited the paper.
Correspondence to: Dr. Dhakshina Ganeshan, Assistant Professor of Radiology, University of Texas, MD Anderson Cancer Center, 1400 Pressler Street, Unit 1473, Houston, TX 77030, United States. dganeshan@mdanderson.org
Telephone: +1-713-7928182 Fax: +1-713-7451302
Received: May 22, 2012
Revised: September 13, 2012
Accepted: January 31, 2013
Published online: March 28, 2013
Abstract

Computed tomography (CT) colonoscopy is a well-established technique for evaluation of colorectal cancer. Significant advances have been made in the technique of CT colonoscopy since its inception. Excellent results can be achieved in detecting both colorectal cancer and significant sized polyps as long as a meticulous technique is adopted while performing CT colonoscopy. Furthermore, it is important to realize that there is a learning curve involved in interpreting these studies and adequate experience is essential to achieve high sensitivity and specificity with this technique. Indications, contraindications, technique and interpretation, including potential pitfalls in CT colonoscopy imaging, are reviewed in this article. Recent advances and the current role of CT colonoscopy in colorectal cancer screening are also discussed.

Keywords: Computed tomography colonoscopy; Colorectal cancer