Newer is not always better. Evidence is important. Simple themes, oft forgotten in health journalism.
Back in October, an Atlanta Journal-Constitution story talked of the wonders of virtual colonoscopy, saying it replaced the dreaded colonoscope and lessened patient risk. It used these words to refer to the technology: “science fiction, Star Wars, video game, Disney World.”
Also in October, the Wall Street Journal promoted the growing popularity of virtual colonoscopies.
Neither story mentioned the fact that the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force had stated that same month that “The evidence is insufficient to assess the benefits and harms of computed tomographic colonography as a screening modality for colorectal cancer.”
Last week’s announcement that Medicare may stop paying for virtual colonoscopies also got little news attention.
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A lot of interesting workshops are happening now at the #NBCCSummit! @garyschwitzer, the publisher of @HealthNewsRevu, is discussing new cancer research news. #BeBold
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Jules elias
February 15, 2009 at 12:42 pmVirtual colonoscopy has a role in those individuals who because of anatomical obstructions, such as adhesions, preclude the standard approach. However, a recent report in JAMA showed that 1 in 1200 recipients of a CAT Scan have a significant increase in radiation induced disease. One has to always weigh the risks and benefits of any medical decision.
Rob
February 15, 2009 at 3:17 pmWhy don’t people ever mention that a virtual colonoscopy requires an enema? The idea that it is “less invasive” doesn’t equate with “it’s more comfortable.” Here is a description of the procedure from the National Digestive Diseases clearinghouse website:
How is virtual colonoscopy performed?
Virtual colonoscopy is performed wherever the CT scanner or MRI unit is located—usually in the radiology department of a hospital or medical center. The procedure takes about 10 minutes and does not require sedation.
* Patients will lie face up on a table.
* A thin tube will be inserted through the anus and into the rectum. For CT, carbon dioxide gas will be pumped through the tube to expand the large intestine for better viewing. For MRI, contrast media will be given rectally to expand the large intestine.
* The table will move through the CT scanner or MRI unit to produce a series of cross-sectional images of the colon.
* At various points during the procedure, the doctor may ask patients to hold their breath to steady the images.
* The procedure will be repeated while patients lie face down.
Um….I think I’ll drink the jug and be sedated for the colonoscopy, thank you.
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