The barium sulfate spreads throughout the colon and then most of it is removed. The colon is partially inflated with air, expanding it and increasing the contrast and quality of x-rays. Although virtual colonoscopy requires full bowel preparation, it takes less time and does not require sedation. DNA mutations in stool have the potential to be very specific and sensitive as well as cost-effective. Such alternatives to current screening techniques may be more tolerable to patients, thereby increasing their compliance.
Colorectal cancer is highly preventable and, when detected early, eminently curable.
Chemotherapy, or chemotherapy plus radiation, is given before or after surgery to most patients whose cancer has deeply perforated the bowel wall or has spread to the lymph nodes. Website maintained by the Texas Cancer Data Center . Website Copyright 1999-2001, Texas Cancer Council . All Rights Reserved. Site last updated May 31, 2001.