Virtual or Conventional ? Comparative Diagnostic Accuracy of Imaging and Endoscopic Techniques in Colorectal Disorders

Mohammed, Shaimaa Shehatta; Mohammed, Nadia Farouk; Shawqat, Ibrahim; Hassanen, Ayman Mohamed; Wagih, Alaa

doi:10.21608/mjmr.2025.399837.2010

Virtual or Conventional ? Comparative Diagnostic Accuracy of Imaging and Endoscopic Techniques in Colorectal Disorders

Articles in Press

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

¹ Department of diagnostic radiology, Faculty of Medicine, Minia university, Minia. Egypt

² Professor of diagnostic radiology Faculty of Medicine Minya University

³ Department of General Surgery , Faculty of Medicine, Minia university, Minia. Egypt

⁴ radiology department, faculty of medicine, minia university

10.21608/mjmr.2025.399837.2010

Abstract

Background: Colorectal diseases are a leading cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Conventional colonoscopy (CC) remains the gold standard for diagnosis and management, while virtual colonoscopy (VC) has emerged as a less invasive alternative. This study aims to compare the diagnostic performance, clinical utility, and patient acceptability of virtual versus conventional colonoscopy in the assessment of colorectal diseases.

Methods: The study involved 50 patients at Minia University Hospitals who underwent three imaging modalities: virtual colonoscopy, conventional colonoscopy, and CT abdomen with enema. Clinical symptoms, demographic data, and procedural findings were recorded. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 25. The CT abdomen with enema involved rectal contrast under controlled conditions, and scans were performed using multidetector CT. Imaging was evaluated for mural thickening, masses, polyps, and luminal narrowing by two experienced radiologists.

Results: The study involved participants aged 45.56 ± 8.46 years, 60% male and 40% female. Common symptoms included chronic constipation, bleeding per rectum, and melena. Virtual colonoscopy showed high sensitivity in detecting polyps ≥10 mm and was better tolerated. However, it lacked therapeutic capabilities and limitations in detecting smaller or flat lesions. Conventional colonoscopy allowed for immediate biopsy and intervention, crucial in managing significant colorectal lesions.

Conclusion: Virtual colonoscopy is a safe, non-invasive diagnostic tool, but conventional colonoscopy is crucial for definitive diagnosis and therapeutic intervention. Integrating both modalities may improve diagnostic pathways, especially in symptomatic patients or those unfit for invasive procedures.Figure 3: Virtual Colonoscopy 3D view showing a large exophytic sigmoid mass protruding into the colonic lumen.

Keywords