Spring Issue 2010

Steven J. Morris, M.D., FACP,
PCC Board Chair
President, Atlanta Gastroenterology Associates

Not every polyp becomes cancer, but almost every colon cancer begins as a small non-cancerous polyp. If polyps are removed in a timely fashion, the progression to cancer is eliminated. This article provides some helpful background information on polyp types and the relationship between polyps and colon cancer.

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Stanford R. Plavin MD
PCC Board Vice-Chair
President and Managing Partner, Ambulatory Anesthesia of ATL

With the growing interest in using propofol (also known as Diprivan) as a sedative during traditional colonoscopies, a number of new medical protocols and reimbursement issues are on the table. This article provides an update on a recent decision by the FDA to reject the use of a device called Sedasys, sometimes referred to a computer-assisted personalized sedation system (CAPS). Sedasys would have allowed non-anesthesia personnel to administer propofol. This analysis looks at some of the public policy issues that impacted the FDA decision.

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Garry Carneal, JD MA
PCC Board of Directors
President & CEO, Schooner Healthcare Services, LLC

In this season of healthcare reform, this article takes a quick peek at how the new federal healthcare reform law and how it impacts colorectal cancer screening and care. In addition, this article reviews a handful of other bills still pending during the 111th Session of Congress that would sponsor programs to reduce the incidence of colon cancer.

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For years, health officials have been trying to expand colorectal cancer screening rates. This interview highlights a new approach that could have a significant impact on local communities to encourage individuals to get a colonoscopy.

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The President recently underwent a CT Colonography as part of his annual medical exam. This brief op-ed piece reminds us that the traditional colonoscopy is still the gold standard method for colorectal cancer screening.

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Thanks to advances in genetic testing, individuals have more screening and treatment options to fight against or treat colon cancer. This article highlights some of the latest developments where DNA and other genetic materials are used to gain insight and support individuals with family histories of colon cancer or other targeted populations.

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