CAMRT Radiography Practice Exam

What is the main disadvantage of CT colonography compared to conventional endoscopy?

1. Cost

2. Bowel prep

3. Can't biopsy or remove polyps

4. Time consuming procedure

The correct answer is: Can't biopsy or remove polyps

The main disadvantage of CT colonography, also known as virtual colonoscopy, compared to conventional endoscopy lies in its inability to perform biopsies or remove polyps during the same procedure. While both techniques are used for screening and evaluating the colon, conventional endoscopy allows healthcare providers to not only visualize the interior of the colon but also to take tissue samples (biopsies) and remove any identified polyps in real-time. This capability is crucial in the management of colorectal cancer and potential precursors since polyps can be immediately addressed rather than requiring a follow-up treatment based on the findings of imaging studies. CT colonography primarily serves as a non-invasive imaging technique that relies on x-ray technology to create detailed images of the colon. Although it offers significant benefits, including a lower risk of complications and a shorter recovery time, its limitation in biopsy and polyp removal represents a key difference from conventional endoscopy. While bowel preparation, cost, and time may also be relevant factors, they do not directly influence the capability to biopsy or remove polyps during the procedure and therefore do not capture the essential drawback of CT colonography in this context.