Reduced laxative CT colonography for patients aged 85 years or older: safety and validity study

Abstract

Object: This retrospective study aimed to investigate the safety and validity of reduced laxative CT colonography in patients aged 85 years or older.
Methods: Between May 2013 and September 2016 in one institution, a total of 47 patients (20 men, 27 women; median age 88 years, maximum 95 years) aged 85 years or older were reviewed. Patients received 380 ml of magnesium citrate plus 20 ml of sodium diatrizoate on the day before the examination after breakfast and dinner. CT colonography examinations were performed on 80-channel multi-detector row CT scanners using an automated carbon dioxide gas insufflator.
Results: Of 47 patients, 2 patients showed poor image due to insufficient distention and incomplete examination rate was 4% (2/47). A total of 6 lesions ≥ 10 mm were depicted by CT colonography and the detection rate was 13 % (6/45). No adverse events occurred. Optical colonoscopy demonstrated 3 cancers and 3 adenomas, all removed by surgery or endoscopy. Positive predictive value was 100% (6/6). No recurrence has occurred so far.
Conclusions: Reduced laxative CT colonography for patients aged 85 years or older was safe and useful.