Radiographers are valuable contributors in interpreting computed tomography colonography.

INTRODUCTION

Computed tomography colonography (CTC) is the primary radiological examination for detection of colorectal cancer and premalignant polyps. It is a complex technique that requires special training and experience of both the radiographers performing the colonography and the radiologists who interpret the results. The considerable number of CTC performed means that interpretation of the examinations is a time-consuming task for radiologists. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the diagnostic performance of radiographers who received a training programme in colon diagnosing.

METHODS

During the period from December 2014 to May 2015, 126 patients underwent CTC screening or diagnostics. The colon was interpreted by both a radiographer and an experienced radiologist. Subsequently, results were compared and consensus established.

RESULTS

A total of 100 patients were included, six polyps (6-9 mm), one polyp (≥ 10 mm), four cancer suspect areas and four second opinions. The result was nine true positives, three false positives, no false negatives and 84 true negatives corresponding to a negative predictive value of 1.000 and an accuracy of 0.969.

CONCLUSIONS

This study shows that radiographers can be a valuable contribution in the interpretation of CTC.

FUNDING: This study was funded by Marie Pedersen and Jensine Heiberg's legat, Vendsyssel Hospital, Denmark.

TRIAL REGISTRATION: not relevant.