Dear AuntMinnie Member,
U.S. clinicians are finding that advanced visualization analysis of multislice CT images offers improvements over conventional radiography in detecting asbestos-related diseases.
In a recent presentation, physicians from the Barbara Ann Karmanos Cancer Institute in Detroit explained how they're using 64-slice CT in combination with 3D software to detect signs of pulmonary fibrosis. We're featuring an article on the topic by staff writer Erik L. Ridley in our Advanced Visualization Digital Community.
CT with 3D has proved to be so effective in catching early signs of disease that the clinicians have used it to recommend screening for some workers who have been in contact with asbestos. Get the rest of the story by clicking here, or visit av.auntminnie.com.
Virtual colonoscopy's economics
In other news, a new research study compares the cost-effectiveness of virtual colonoscopy (also known as CT colonography) relative to optical colonoscopy, the gold standard for colon cancer detection.
U.S. and Dutch researchers analyzed the variables involved in colorectal cancer screening -- such as screening interval, clinical algorithm, procedure cost, and screening compliance rate -- to determine whether VC could match the optical technique in terms of cost and life-years gained. The study is one of several VC cost analyses to appear in recent months.
The cost/benefit question is especially important as the U.S. Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) approaches a decision on whether to pay for VC screening. Learn more about the study by clicking here, or visit the Virtual Colonoscopy Digital Community at vc.auntminnie.com.
