Study: CT Colonography Accurate Without Cleansing

A computed tomography colonography (CTC) can be done without a cathartic colon cleansing and still detect colon cancer in the early stages, according to Belgian researchers.

While conventional colonoscopy is still considered the “gold standard” in the diagnosis of colorectal cancer, many patients avoid the screening test because of the need for cathartic colon cleansing, according to Dr. Philippe Lefere of Stedelijk Ziekenhuis.

The cleansing process requires that patients drink large amounts of a fluid -- polyethylene glycol -- that has a bad taste and causes massive diarrhea. The cleansing empties the patient's colon so the doctor performing the colonoscopy has a clear view and is able to spot any polyps.

So Lefere studied nine patients who were placed on low residue diets and reduced-hydration regimens the day prior to undergoing CTC. The patients also drank varying amounts of barium to "tag" fecal matter left in the colon.

By restricting food and liquid intake, Lefere said fecal volume was reduced and the colon was almost completely dry in each patient -- conditions that make it easier to detect polyps.

"Our results suggest that CTC can be done without cathartic cleansing," Lefere reported at the American Roentgen Ray Society annual meeting. "Some gastroenterologists say that if CTC could be performed without cathartic cleansing, it would have all the chances of becoming the screening method of choice."

Other Sources: American Roentgen Ray Society