Computed Tomography (CT) is a radiographic imaging technique which produces cross-sectional images of the body. It is frequently used to evaluate the brain, neck, spine, chest, abdomen, pelvis and sinuses. A polyp is a growth which arises from the mucous membrane. The colon is the large intestine and the last part of the bowel. Polyps in the colon is a common pathology encountered in the gastrointestinal system. It’s possible to have multiple polyps that are flat or raised and most of them are found to be benign.
Some can be pre-malignant lesions and proper evaluation is needed. There are several investigations which can be performed to detect colon polyps. They can be categorized as radiographic and non-radiographic. CT colonography is a well-known imaging technique among the clinicians. Does a CT scan show colon polyps? This is a common question raised by the non-medical personals since it is less invasive.
The answer is Yes.
In these conditions, CT colonography always comes as the investigation of choice to detect large bowel abnormalities because the colonoscopy is contraindicated.
Does a CT scan show colon polyps? Yes, it does and it has become one of the key investigations in diagnosing colon pathologies. It can identify different features of polyps separately. Pedunculated polyps, sub pedunculated lesions, flat lesions, and sessile lesions are few of macroscopic types of polyps which can be identified by a CT colonography.
Images of a CT colonography can give clear information regarding the extent of local invasion in malignant polyps. Inability to obtain samples for histology is the main disadvantage in a CT scan of the colon compared with colonoscopy. The advantages include less invasive than a colonoscopy, no need for sedation, less risk of bowel perforation and less time-consuming.
Dr. Chauturi is an experienced writer specializing in English language and Medical Sciences, and degree holder in Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery at University of Sri Jayewardenepura currently awaiting her internship.
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