Incidental gynecological findings on computed tomographic colonography: prevalence and outcomes

Gynecol Oncol. 2009 Oct;115(1):138-141. doi: 10.1016/j.ygyno.2009.05.016. Epub 2009 Jun 4.

Abstract

Objectives: Computed tomographic colonography (CTC) is an investigational method for detecting colorectal polyps. Our objectives were to determine the prevalence of gynecologic findings found incidentally on CTC, and to determine the incidence of additional radiological studies and surgical procedures.

Methods: An electronic database identified female patients who underwent CTC at Walter Reed Army Medical Center from January 2002 to July 2005. CTC reports were pared down using gynecologic keywords. Subsequent radiological studies and pathology reports were evaluated for women with gynecological findings.

Results: Gynecologic extracolonic findings (ECF) were identified in 71 (9.5%) of the 749 women who underwent CTC. Of these 71 women, 14 (20%) underwent additional radiological and/or surgical evaluation. Nine (13%) of these women underwent surgical evaluation; all pathologic diagnoses were benign.

Conclusion: Gynecologic extracolonic findings are common in women undergoing CTC. These gynecologic ECF identified on CTC may lead to additional investigative studies and procedures.

MeSH terms

  • Colonic Neoplasms / diagnostic imaging*
  • Colonography, Computed Tomographic*
  • Female
  • Genital Neoplasms, Female / diagnostic imaging*
  • Humans
  • Middle Aged
  • Prevalence