Dear AuntMinnie Insider,
Are gastroenterologists ready to read virtual colonoscopy exams? At least one is, according to a new multicenter study from Japan and the U.S.
In a controlled reading of both prepped and unprepped datasets, the gastroenterologist found more medium-sized polyps than his radiologist counterpart -- though both board-certified physicians nailed the larger lesions.
Did training have a hand in picking the winner? Will other gastroenterologists be willing to devote the time necessary to become expert readers? You'll find the answers, well sort of, in this issue's Insider Exclusive story.
In our Virtual Colonoscopy Digital Community, check out a new dose study from the Netherlands. Researchers from the Academic Medical Center at the University of Amsterdam surveyed dozens of VC providers about the radiation doses they used in daily practice and for screening.
On the hot topic of polyp measurement, a new algorithm measures polyps differently compared to previous systems, gauging polyp protrusion in a bid to reduce measurement variability. Polyp size is obtained by fitting an ellipse, and polyp measurements are derived from the largest diameter of the ellipse.
Finally, don't miss your chance to weigh in on the readiness and/or limitations of virtual colonoscopy for the U.S. government. The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) has launched a national coverage analysis to assess VC's readiness for widespread screening and Medicare reimbursement. As part of the analysis, the agency is accepting comments from the public until June 18.
