Numerous methods for display and interpretation of virtual colonoscopy datasets have been described. Each visualization technique has merit and no data exist to suggest which is best.
Preference depends primarily on the software available to the user.
For virtual colonoscopy to be an effective clinical tool, emphasis must be placed not only on diagnostic accuracy, but also on the need for rapid and easy interactive evaluation of images using affordable, commercially available, and user-friendly software. Figure 1 A B C Figure 1. The primary difference between the various methods of virtual colonoscopy lies in the manner by which the helical CT images are manipulated by the computer and displayed. Figure 1a shows a 2D axial CT image. Supplementary visualization techniques are used, as in Figure 1b where a 3D PVR endoluminal image reveals a polyp.