[The preponderant role of the radiologist in the prevention of recto-colonic carcinoma by the detection of polyps (author's transl)].

The adenomatous polyp is considered to be the precursor of recto-colonic carcinoma. The detection of polyps would appear to be ensured with maximum effectiveness by double contrast barium enema and the authors recommend the routine use of this technique for this purpose. The aim of the radiologist should no longer be merely that of the diagnosis of carcinoma of the colon and rectum, but also its prevention by enabling colonoscopic excision of glandular polyps.