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Virtual colonoscopy is coming to Fredericksburg. Is it better than the conventional test Date published: 7/29/2007
BY TESS HAMILTON A relatively new procedure called virtual colonoscopy will soon bring colon cancer screening to area residents too squeamish, too busy or too sensitive to anesthesia to undergo a traditional colonoscopy. Virtual colonoscopy offers a less invasive alternative to conventional methods, which require a tube to be threaded through the large intestine to look for precancerous growths called polyps. Already available at major research institutions like the University of Virginia, virtual colonoscopy is now making its way to Fredericksburg. Fredericksburg Radiology Associates has obtained the necessary equipment and hopes to offer virtual screenings to the public within the next six months. The group recently began trials to build familiarity with virtual colonoscopy technology, which requires extensive hands-on training. Dr. Christopher Meyer, a radiologist with the group, sees the group's investment in virtual colonoscopy as a logical response to its growing popularity. "I have a feeling that this will be mainstream screening within a few years," Meyer said. In virtual colonoscopy, also known as CT colonography, the doctor makes a digital three-dimensional model of the colon, which is scanned for unwanted growths. The procedure gives people uncomfortable with sedation, or squeamish about having a tool put inside them, a more relaxing option. Studies show that most patients consider it a more convenient option. And a more relaxing environment may make for more screening--and more early detection of colon cancer. Though colon cancer is highly treatable when caught early, screening opportunities are consistently underused. In Virginia, as of 2002, only 40 percent of those over 50 had received colon cancer screenings at the recommended intervals. Colon cancer screening is particularly important because of the effectiveness of treatment. When their cancer is found early, the five-year survival rate for colon cancer patients is 90 percent. Due largely to inconsistent screening, however, only 40 percent of colon cancers are found early. The CDC estimates that proper screening of those over 50 could prevent 60 percent of colon cancer deaths. Fredericksburg Radiology Group hopes to contribute to prevention efforts. "The more options, the more people will actually be screened," Meyer said. optimism and drawbacksThough candid about the procedure's disadvantages-particularly its out-of-pocket costs-Meyer considers virtual colonoscopy a valuable tool.
Date published: 7/29/2007
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