Riverside Health Care Introduces CT Colonography To Expand Cancer Screening Reach
December 03, 2024
Riverside Health Care Introduces CT Colonography To Expand Cancer Screening Reach
Cancer screening is critically important, and thanks to the addition of a new technology at La Verendrye General Hospital (LVGH), even more members of our communities across the Rainy River District will have the ability to participate in a potentially life-saving activity.
On Wednesday, November 28, Riverside Health Care introduced Computerized Tomography (CT) Colonography at LVGH. Also known as virtual colonoscopy, the procedure uses low-dose radiation CT scanning to offer an interior view of the colon. It’s used to screen for colorectal cancer and other health conditions in the gastrointestinal tract and is a less invasive approach for patients who can’t have a colonoscopy.
On average, more than 500 colonoscopies are performed annually at LVGH, and Dr. Shiraz Elkheir anticipates the ability to help another 50 or more patients during the first six months to a year as knowledge spreads regarding this option. Riverside Health Care is only the second site in the region to perform the 3D imaging procedure.
“Once more family doctors and patients know about this procedure, I expect more will come forward,” says Dr. Elkheir, who notes that it is important to remember the preferred method continues to be the colonoscopy. “This does not replace the standard colonoscopy, and it is not meant for every case and every person. The regular colonoscopy remains the gold standard as it allows sampling or possible excision of lesions.”
Although similar steps are taken by patients to clear the bowel prior to the visit, CT Colonography only takes approximately 30 minutes from start to finish and does not require sedation. It is more comfortable and less invasive and offers a much lower risk of bowel perforation with CO2 introduced to the colon to enhance the scanning and detect large and medium sized abnormalities with relative ease. The CO2 used absorbs naturally in the body once the procedure is complete, with most absorbed within an hour. Patients can return to normal duties after their scan.
“This is a newer method that is increasing in popularity. Implementing the latest advancements in medical innovation is part of our commitment to making health care more accessible to all and enhancing the quality of life for our patients,” says Henry Gauthier, President & CEO of Riverside Health Care. “We continue to look for pioneering opportunities as part of Riverside’s dedication to providing advanced, patient-centered care.”
To determine which procedure is best for an individual, a specialist will assess each case, but CT colonography is a very good complementary procedure, Dr. Elkheir added. Some patients have had failed colonoscopies or are unable to have them because of reasons that range from an inability to sedate or tolerate pain, a complicated bowel, or other factors that increase risk for the scope.
“Having the ability to include more patients in cancer screening is a huge advancement in a critical area of health care,” says Diana Harris, Chief Nursing Executive. “We’re excited to increase these numbers as more become aware of what’s possible, and continue to expand our dedication to improving the health of our communities.”