Computed tomography colonography in 2014: An update on technique and indications

Core Tip

Core tip: Computed tomographic colonography (CTC) is easy to perform, standardized, and patient-friendly. Radiation exposure is minimized and image interpretation is facilitated by the use of a computer-aided detection algorithm. The diagnostic accuracies for colorectal cancer (CRC) and large polyps are similar to that of colonoscopy (CS) and are largely superior to that of barium enema. Incomplete, failed, or unfeasible CS and investigation of symptomatic, elderly, and frail patients and diverticular disease are clear indications. CTC is recommended for CRC screening and in surveillance after surgery or polypectomy if CS is unfeasible. Acute abdominal conditions and surveillance in patients with ulcerative colitis, Crohn’s disease, and hereditary colonic syndromes are known contraindications.