Tuesday, March 28, 2017
Bracco Diagnostics Inc., the U.S. subsidiary of Bracco Imaging S.p.A., a leading global company in the diagnostic imaging business, today announced the launch of its PROTOCO2L TOUCH Colon Insufflator. This device is used to inflate the colon with CO2 in patients who undergo Computed Tomography (CT) Colonography (CTC) for the detection of colon cancer.
In the U.S., colon cancer is a leading cause of cancer related deaths. It is recommended that people age 50 and older be screened for the presence of this disease, as early detection can lead to increased cure rates. Advances in CT imaging have allowed for the examination of the colon via CTC, a quick, non-invasive test that does not require a patient to be sedated.
Due to the increasing evidence of the effectiveness of CTC, the United States Preventative Services Task Force (USPSTF) classified CTC as a Grade A Screening test in June 2016.
"The USPSTF Grade A classification places CTC on par with optical colonoscopy, which has been the gold standard of screening for colon cancer," said Alberto Spinazzi, MD, Senior Vice President, Global Medical and Regulatory Affairs, Bracco Group. "Colorectal cancer is one of the deadliest cancers, but has a 90% cure rate when detected early." Spinazzi continued, "CTC offers clinicians and patients a fast and reliable screening test with an added benefit for patients in that they do not need to undergo sedation. This means that a patient does not need to have someone else drive them to and from their CTC exam, and the patient does not need to take a day away from their work."
The PROTOCO2L TOUCH Colon Insufflator is used in CTC exams to obtain optical distension of the colon. The device utilizes automated insufflation of CO2, which is more rapidly absorbed with less post-procedural discomfort than the alternative, room air. The PROTOCO2L TOUCH Colon Insufflator offers clinicians touch screen, digital technology and other important features for procedural efficiency not available from the previous generations of colon insufflators.
The PROTOCO2L TOUCH Colon Insufflator will be displayed at the Bracco Diagnostics Inc. booth at the Society of Abdominal Radiology (SAR) 2017 Annual Scientific Meeting and Education Course, taking place March 26-31, in Hollywood, Florida. The SAR scientific program offers many educational opportunities for CT Colonography, and Bracco Diagnostics is very proud to support this Annual Scientific Meeting.
