Science, medicine, and the future: Virtual colonoscopy

Publisher Website
Google Scholar
Abstract
Background In 1994 the Royal Mail issued a series of four stamps celebrating major medical advances of the 20th century; three of these were radiological (ultrasound scanning, computed tomography, and magnetic resonance imaging). Radiology is a technology based discipline and is one of the most rapidly developing medical specialties, not least because advances in computer technology are almost instantly incorporated into the various imaging modalities. Image acquisition and display are constantly improving, and image processing that required until recently a dedicated workstation is now possible with a personal computer. The possibilities for diagnostic imaging that are available today would have been unimaginable only 30 years ago, and computed tomography has played a central role in this development. Predicted developments New multi-slice spiral computed tomography will increase the sensitivity of virtual colonoscopy for detecting colorectal polyps Faster and cheaper computer power will translate into faster and more complex image reconstruction, such as “virtual pathology” Image analysis and polyp detection are likely to become automated Oral labelling agents will eliminate the need for bowel cleansing Magnetic resonance imaging will be increasingly used for virtual examinations Because virtual colonoscopy is safe, easy, complete, and, once bowel cleansing is eliminated, non-invasive, it will assume a prominent role in screening for colorectal cancer