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. 2022 Aug 8:9:23743735221117926.
doi: 10.1177/23743735221117926. eCollection 2022.

Computed Tomography Colonography (CTC): Is It Really the Non-Invasive Option We Think It Is? A Patient Experience Study

Greg Dewar  1 , Bethany Brockbank  1 , Jonathan Randall  1
Affiliations

Computed Tomography Colonography (CTC): Is It Really the Non-Invasive Option We Think It Is? A Patient Experience Study

Greg Dewar et al. J Patient Exp. .

Abstract

Aims: Computed tomography colonography (CTC) is seen as a more tolerable alternative to colonoscopy, but patients struggle with the steps required for optimal diagnostic imaging. This prospective study aims to understand the experience of patients undergoing CTC. Methods: A survey was completed by a convenience sample of patients before and after CTC over 7 months. The 13-item questionnaire covered pre-test information, overall and specific experience of the test. The responses were tabulated and analyzed using descriptive statistics. Qualitative free-text responses were coded for content and thematic analysis. Results: At a response rate of 51%, surveys were received from 41 patients. Overall, most patients (54%) found the investigation better than expected. However, 18% stated they were not informed of potential side effects. Side effects were experienced by 49% of patients, including diarrhea (34%) and abdominal pain (24%). About 59% experienced discomfort with gas insufflation, and 86% found turning during the investigation difficult. Conclusion: A significant proportion of patients undergoing CTC experience side effects and difficulties completing the investigation. Patient information is important to improve patient experience of CTC.

Keywords: CT colonography; cancer; frailty; geriatrics; imaging; medical decision making; patient experience.

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Conflict of interest statement

Declaration of Conflicting Interests: The authors declared no potential conflicts of interest with respect to the research, authorship, and/or publication of this article.

Figures

Figure 1.
Figure 1.
Patient experience survey.
Figure 2.
Figure 2.
Side effects.
Figure 3.
Figure 3.
Patient discomfort.
See this image and copyright information in PMC

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