ASGE Encourages Patients to Speak to Their Doctor About Colorectal Cancer Screeni...(p air into the colon. -- Does ...),Health

air into the colon.

-- Does not require sedation, although air distension of the bowel can be

uncomfortable.

-- Exposes the patient to radiation.

-- Is not currently covered by Medicare as an initial screening test.

-- Results from a few select specialized centers have not been replicated

elsewhere.

-- Currently there is a shortage of people trained to read these scans.

"CT colonography may be best in low risk patients who cannot undergo colonoscopy or who have had an incomplete colonoscopy due to various factors," said Petrini. "Colorectal cancer prevention is a major priority for ASGE, by whichever form it is achieved. Not enough people are getting screened for colorectal cancer and opening a dialogue about screening between the physician and patient is crucial in preventing this disease. Therefore, we will continue to follow developments in all modes of colorectal cancer screening and to critically evaluate which methods are best for patients."

Before undergoing a CT colonography, here are some questions to ask the physician who will perform the procedure:

What training have you received to perform CT colonography?

How many CT colonographies have you performed?

What are complications of the procedure?

What arrangements will be made if I have a significant finding?

For more information about colorectal cancer screening, visit ASGE's colorectal cancer awareness Web site at http://www.screen4coloncancer.org.

About the American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy

Founded in 1941, the mission of the American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy is to be the leader in advancing patient care and digestive health by promoting excellence in gastrointestinal endoscopy. ASGE, with more than 10,000 physician members worldwide, promotes the highest standards for endoscopic training and
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