Margriet C de Haan, Presenter: Nothing to Disclose

Thomas R De Wijkerslooth MD, Abstract Co-Author: Nothing to Disclose

Esther Stoop, Abstract Co-Author: Nothing to Disclose

Patrick M. M. Bossuyt PhD, Abstract Co-Author: Nothing to Disclose

Evelien Dekker MD, PhD, Abstract Co-Author: Nothing to Disclose

Jaap Stoker MD, PhD, Abstract Co-Author: Nothing to Disclose

CTC has been suggested to be a less burdensome procedure for primary CRC screening than colonoscopy. We compared the perceived burden of both in a randomized trial.

Data were collected in the randomised, multicenter Colonoscopy or Colonography for Screening trial. In total, 8,842 Dutch citizens aged 50-74 were randomly invited for colonoscopy (n=5,923) or CTC (n=2,919). Colonoscopy was performed with 2L Moviprep and 2L clear fluid, CTC with 3x50mL Telebrix. Midazolam and fentanyl were administered during colonoscopy. The perceived burden was measured two weeks after the initial procedure on five-point Likert scales, using a previously validated questionnaire.

1,012 of 1,276 colonoscopy participants (79%) and 812 of 982 CTC participants (83%) completed the questionnaire (p=0.04). Drinking the preparation received a higher burden score in the colonoscopy group (mean rank 3.0, versus 1.7 in the CTC group, p<0.001), related bowel movements were more burdensome in the CTC group (2.0 versus 2.2, p<0.001). The full screening procedure was found to be more burdensome in the CTC group (1.8 versus 2.0, p<0.001). The most burdensome aspect in the colonoscopy group was the bowel preparation (73%); most burdensome aspects in the CTC group were the examination itself (37%) and the bowel preparation (32%). Colonoscopy participants reported the procedure to be less burdensome than expected (mean rank 1.8 versus 2.2, p<0.001). Overall, 96% of colonoscopy and 93% of CTC respondents indicated they would probably or definitely participate again in a next screening round (p for mean rank = 0.98).

Overall CTC was experienced as more burdensome than colonoscopy with conscious sedation, but differences were small. There was no difference in number of participants who intent to participate in a next screening round with the same technique.

In a CRC screening setting in which the invitee is invited either for primary CTC or colonoscopy, CTC participants experience the overall exam as more burdensome, although differences are small.

de Haan, M, De Wijkerslooth, T, Stoop, E, Bossuyt, P, Dekker, E, Stoker, J, Perceived Burden of Screening by Colonoscopy or CT Colonography in the Detection of Advanced Neoplasia: A Randomized Controlled Trial.  Radiological Society of North America 2011 Scientific Assembly and Annual Meeting, November 26 - December 2, 2011 ,Chicago IL. http://archive.rsna.org/2011/11034315.html