[CT-colonography after incomplete conventional colonoscopy].

INTRODUCTION

CT-colonography (CTC) is recommended in the case of an incomplete conventional colonoscopy (CC). The present study was initiated to assess feasibility and outcomes in same-day CTC after incomplete CC.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Out of 480 consecutive patients who had CC for symptoms or for surveillance, 50 were incomplete for reasons other than insufficient preparation. If possible, CTC was performed on the same day in dual positions without contrast. Where CTC found suspected polyps, patients had a re-CC for verification and removal, and subsequent surgery in the case of cancer.

RESULTS

Reasons for incomplete CC were loop formation (24%), pain (48%), kinking or external compression (24%) or benign strictures (4%). 43 of 50 CTCs (86%, 95% CI 73-94%) were conclusive. The organization allowed for 25 patients (50%) to have CTC on the same day. CTC detected 17 suspected polyps/masses, 13 of which were verified in 12 patients (28%). Re-CC or surgery verified 3 out of 4 of the suspected polyps < or = 5 mm, 5 out of 6 of those sized 6-9 mm, and 5 out of 7 of the masses > 9 mm (including 2 cancers). 19 (38%) had previously undetected extra-intestinal disease, including metastases in 4 patients, a uterine cancer in one, and a 7 cm abdominal aortic aneurism in one.

CONCLUSION

Same-day CTC after incomplete CC is feasible and effective.