 |
|
Breakthrough optical technology to assess colon cancer risk, accuracy
October 02, 2008Researchers at NorthShore University HealthSystem (NorthShore) and Northwestern University have discovered that fiber optic technology can for the very first time effectively measure blood levels in the colonic lining (mucosa) in humans, thus having potential applications for analyzing risk of colon cancer.
The study appears in the October 2008 issue of Gastroenterology, the official journal of the American Gastroenterological Association (AGA) Institute.
The study used fiber optic technology to map microvascular blood content in patients during colonoscopy. The results provide the first indication that the early increase in blood supply (EIBS) is detectable in humans and that a high blood level mirrors proximity to neoplasia (process of tumor formation). The findings also suggest that this technology could be a valuable screening tool for enhancing polyp detection and could lead to improvements in colon cancer prevention.
"Our premise is that since the lining of the large intestine -- rectum and colon -- is contiguous, if you see an abnormality in one part of the colon, then somewhere else in the colon you have a higher likelihood of harboring an adenoma [benign tumor] or carcinoma [malignant tumor]," said Hemant K. Roy, M.D., director of gastroenterology research at NorthShore University HealthSystem and the study's principal clinical researcher. "EIBS strengthens our premise thanks largely to the unique and accurate ability of Four Dimensional Elastic Light Scattering Fingerprinting (4D-ELF)."
This state-of-the-art light probe was developed by Vadim Backman, professor of biomedical engineering at Northwestern University's McCormick School of Engineering and Applied Science. It utilizes a revolutionary light scattering technology that can detect subtle abnormal changes in cells lining the colon long before those changes can be seen under a microscope, and even before polyps form.
"It's fascinating," said Roy, "to very precisely know that you're looking at the most superficial layer of tissue -- which is where all polyps and cancer start -- and the accuracy with which these things can be measured."
Researchers used the optic probe to measure oxygenated (Ohb) and deoxygenated (Dhb) hemoglobin (Hb) specifically in the colonic lining where small blood vessels circulate. At NorthShore's Evanston Hospital, 222 patients undergoing colonoscopy screening were recruited for the study in 2006 and 2007.
Of these patients, 175 had no adenomas detected, 35 had non-advanced adenomas and 12 had advanced adenomas (polyps larger than one centimeter). The mean age was 56.6 years and 40 percent were female. There were no significant differences in gender. The groups did not significantly differ in tobacco or alcohol history.
The study found that the total Hb concentration was elevated 75.3 percent above control levels (comparable region from patients with no adenomas) at the adenoma site and persisted in the uninvolved mucosa (microscopically normal) area. Moreover, tissue sites located within 10 and 30 centimeters away from an adenoma also manifested a highly statistically significant increase in total Hb, OHb and DHb concentration.
"We are not determining whether an abnormality is cancer or not cancer," said Roy. "What we are doing is using optical technology to determine if we can assess risk through looking at field carcinogenesis [cancer formation]. The potential clinical applications include enhanced polyp detection during colonoscopy."
"While the technology is still in the clinical trial phase," notes Michael Goldberg, M.D., head of gastroenterology at NorthShore University HealthSystem, "it could be available to patients at NorthShore in five years."
Colon cancer is the second-leading cause of cancer death in the United States, killing 55,000 Americans each year. The disease is 90 percent preventable if pre-cancerous polyps are detected early and removed.
"This partnership with Dr. Backman at Northwestern University has the potential of bringing a suite of technologies that is not meant to replace colonoscopy," said Roy, "but rather to more precisely determine risk and thereby help to individualize recommendations on the timing of colonoscopy for colon cancer screening. This improved efficiency and accuracy may aid in cancer prevention efforts."
Northwestern University
"Our premise is that since the lining of the large intestine -- rectum and colon -- is contiguous, if you see an abnormality in one part of the colon, then somewhere else in the colon you have a higher likelihood of harboring an adenoma [benign tumor] or carcinoma [malignant tumor]," said Hemant K. Roy, M.D., director of gastroenterology research at NorthShore University HealthSystem and the study's principal clinical researcher. "EIBS strengthens our premise thanks largely to the unique and accurate ability of Four Dimensional Elastic Light Scattering Fingerprinting (4D-ELF)."
This state-of-the-art light probe was developed by Vadim Backman, professor of biomedical engineering at Northwestern University's McCormick School of Engineering and Applied Science. It utilizes a revolutionary light scattering technology that can detect subtle abnormal changes in cells lining the colon long before those changes can be seen under a microscope, and even before polyps form.
"It's fascinating," said Roy, "to very precisely know that you're looking at the most superficial layer of tissue -- which is where all polyps and cancer start -- and the accuracy with which these things can be measured."
Researchers used the optic probe to measure oxygenated (Ohb) and deoxygenated (Dhb) hemoglobin (Hb) specifically in the colonic lining where small blood vessels circulate. At NorthShore's Evanston Hospital, 222 patients undergoing colonoscopy screening were recruited for the study in 2006 and 2007.
Of these patients, 175 had no adenomas detected, 35 had non-advanced adenomas and 12 had advanced adenomas (polyps larger than one centimeter). The mean age was 56.6 years and 40 percent were female. There were no significant differences in gender. The groups did not significantly differ in tobacco or alcohol history.
The study found that the total Hb concentration was elevated 75.3 percent above control levels (comparable region from patients with no adenomas) at the adenoma site and persisted in the uninvolved mucosa (microscopically normal) area. Moreover, tissue sites located within 10 and 30 centimeters away from an adenoma also manifested a highly statistically significant increase in total Hb, OHb and DHb concentration.
"We are not determining whether an abnormality is cancer or not cancer," said Roy. "What we are doing is using optical technology to determine if we can assess risk through looking at field carcinogenesis [cancer formation]. The potential clinical applications include enhanced polyp detection during colonoscopy."
"While the technology is still in the clinical trial phase," notes Michael Goldberg, M.D., head of gastroenterology at NorthShore University HealthSystem, "it could be available to patients at NorthShore in five years."
Colon cancer is the second-leading cause of cancer death in the United States, killing 55,000 Americans each year. The disease is 90 percent preventable if pre-cancerous polyps are detected early and removed.
"This partnership with Dr. Backman at Northwestern University has the potential of bringing a suite of technologies that is not meant to replace colonoscopy," said Roy, "but rather to more precisely determine risk and thereby help to individualize recommendations on the timing of colonoscopy for colon cancer screening. This improved efficiency and accuracy may aid in cancer prevention efforts."
Northwestern University
Colonoscopy Current Events and Colonoscopy News RSSColon cancer screening more effective earlier in day, UCLA study finds
The effectiveness of a screening colonoscopy may depend on the time of day it is performed. According to a new UCLA study, early-morning colonoscopies yielded more polyps per patient than later screenings, and fewer polyps were found hour by hour as the day progressed.
Residents play key role in CT colonography awareness and promoting the radiology specialty
Residents can serve a vital role in educating Congress, the medical community, and the general public regarding the efficacy of cutting-edge technologies like CT colonography (CTC) as well as the importance of radiologists' training and education and the role that radiologists serve in the provision of quality health care.
High-definition Colonoscopy Detects More Polyps, Mayo Clinic Researchers Say
High-definition (HD) colonoscopy is much more sensitive than standard colonoscopy in finding polyps that could morph into cancer, say researchers at the Mayo Clinic campus in Florida.
Study shows unsedated colonoscopy for colorectal cancer screening well accepted by patients
Researchers from Taiwan report in a new study that unsedated colonoscopy for primary colorectal cancer screening is well accepted in a majority of patients.
M. D. Anderson redefines screening guidelines for breast, cervical and colorectal cancers
Drawing on years of experience in cancer research and patient care, The University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center released today the most comprehensive, risk-based screening guidelines publicly available to date for breast, cervical and colorectal cancers.
How to Lower Costs, Waiting Times for Colonoscopies
Colorectal cancer is a leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the United States, leading to over 50,000 fatalities every year.
New blood tests promise simple, cost-effective diagnosis of gastrointestinal cancers
Promising results from two new blood tests that can aid in the early identification of patients with gastrointestinal (GI) cancers will be presented at Europe's largest cancer congress.
Gut Ecology in Transplant Patients
Small-bowel transplant patients with an ileostomy -- an opening into their small bowel -- have a very different population of bacteria living in their gut than patients whose ileostomy has been closed, researchers from UC Davis and Georgetown University Medical Center have found.
How to increase colonoscopy attendance?
In view of low attendance rate for colonoscopy screening for colorectal cancer (CRC), it is necessary to establish effective intervention methods to increase colonoscopy compliance.
Reinterpretation of proximal colon polyps called hyperplastic in 2001
Serrated colorectal polyps include the subgroups hyperplastic polyps, sessile serrated polyps (also called sessile serrated adenomas), and serrated adenomas.
More Colonoscopy Current Events and Colonoscopy News Articles
 |
Colonoscopy: Principles and Practice by Jerome D. Waye (Editor), Douglas K. Rex (Editor), Christopher B. Williams (Editor) First Edition - Winner of 2004 BMA Medical Book Competition in Gastroenterology The second edition of this prize winning book is written by some of the world’s foremost experts in the field of colonoscopy and colonic imaging. Every chapter has been updated and 5 new chapters have been added to include the latest information and advances in the field of colonoscopy: Capsule Colonoscopy Narrow Band Imaging Confocal Endomicroscopy Endoscopic Submucosal Dissection in the Colon New Colonoscopes and Assist Devices Drawing on the vast experience of the authors it covers every area of medicine that impacts on colonoscopy, including virtual colonography, pathology, techniques for pediatric and adult procedures, and legal aspects... |
 |
Colonoscopy: It'll Crack U Up by Patricia L. Raymond (Author) Are you the proud owner of a vintage posterior? Were you born on or before January 1, 1954? Well,then, "Colonoscopy: It’ll Crack U Up" is just up your alley! Crack U Up is the latest publication from Dr. Patricia Raymond and Rx For Sanity…a compilation of bottom humor for anyone with a tail approaching 50. Find out your risks for colon cancer, what you can do to prevent it, take the Cheek Check Challenge. Show your support for your friends and relatives post-colonoscopy – congratulate them with a great gift copy of Crack U Up! We prescribe a copy of "Crack U Up" for your personal use….and suggest you dose two of your friends or business associates with a copy. Resolve to take better care of yourself, urge those closest you to do the same, and ... |
 |
Atlas of Colonoscopy: Examination Techniques and Diagnosis by Helmut Messmann (Editor) A complete guide to colonoscopy featuring more than 1,000 superb illustrations!<br><br>In recent decades, colonoscopy has developed into one of the most essential techniques for early screening, detection, and diagnosis of colorectal cancer, inflammatory bowel disease, and other disorders. And rapid advances in interventional endoscopy offer doctors and patients an ever-increasing array of treatment possibilities. For newcomers to the technique and advanced practitioners alike, this lavishly illustrated atlas is a state-of-the-art guide to total colonoscopy.<br><br>An accessible introduction to colonoscopy<br>-Expert authors present all of the necessary instruments and examination techniques, as well as guidelines on preparation, related medications,... |
|
Colonoscopy Also With: Milner-Fenwick (Producer) This video outlines why patients may require a colonoscopy, including to screen for colorectal cancer. It helps array patients' fears by showing them what to expect throughout this procedure. The video explains cleansing preparations, possible complications, side effects and recovery. Scenes of polyps and their removal shot through the scope will help patients understand the importance of this procedure. Approx. 10 minutes long. | |
 |
CT Colonography: Principles and Practice of Virtual Colonoscopy by Perry J. Pickhardt MD (Author), David H. Kim MD (Author) In CT Colonography, Perry Pickhardt and David Kim present techniques for quicker evaluation and diagnosis of colon cancer through the pioneering, specialty-changing imaging technique of virtual colonoscopy (VC). This combination of sophisticated X-rays and CT scans of the abdomen offers patients an alternative to colonoscopy that is cost effective and reduces the need for unnecessary polyp removal. Abundantly illustrated in full color, this pioneering book describes CT colonography from pathogenesis, staging and treatment through indications, technique, and interpretation for the most common pathologies. You'll have the full spectrum of VC technique and be able to see procedures performed through video clips on the included DVD. Covers principles, techniques, and interpretations... |
 |
Colonoscopy Bill Engvall (Primary Contributor) |
 |
Virtual Colonoscopy by Lippincott Williams & Wilkins Virtual Colonoscopy : Virtual Colonoscopy Pub Date: October 2007 Product Type: Print Author/s: Judy Yee MD This text is a complete and practical guide to performing virtual colonoscopy examinations and interpreting the results. The book provides precise instructions on how to prepare the patient and specific protocols for the various CT scanners currently in use. Detailed chapters on interpretation demonstrate normal anatomy, anatomic variants, CT appearances of polyps and cancer, and pitfalls of interpretation on two-dimensional and three-dimensional views. Additional chapters cover extracolonic findings, reporting, and fecal and fluid tagging. More than 700 illustrations show examination techniques and normal and pathologic findings.A companion Website will offer... |
 |
Colonoscopy - Risque Eye Charts Birthday Greeting Card by NobleWorks Inc. These cards are part of a long tradition of humorous greeting cards published by NobleWorks Inc., originators of the Talk Bubble card line. NobleWorks offers outrageously wild, hysterically funny, and sometimes unbelievably naughty greeted and blank cards. We feature such properties as Tim Whyatt, Dan Collins, Leo Cullum, Glenn McCoy, Gary McCoy, Tom Cheney, Liberace, Sign Language, Bitter With Baggage, Bad Cat, Bad Dog, Bad Baby, Bush Mania, Mortal Sins, A Cry For Help, Hot Betty, and Chrismukkah, just to name a few! |
|
Smell the Umbrella Stand Also With: Warner Bros. (Producer) | |
 |
Advanced Colon Cancer (Home Use) Part of the award winning public television series Healthy Body/Healthy Mind. Cancer ... it is a six-letter word that can strike fear the minute it's heard or spoken. is A Colon Cancer diagnosis can be devastating, but it's a disease that should be rare. Doctors believe if people knew how to decrease their risk we would have a lot less of this disease to deal with. Thanks to advances in early detection, treatments and therapies, cancer isn't the automatic death sentence that it was a generation ago. There are ways to manage and control this condition. Find out how by watching this program. This product is manufactured on demand using DVD-R recordable media. Amazon.com's standard return policy will apply. |
| © 2009 BrightSurf.com |