New advances in screening for colon cancer

Norwalk, Conn. (WTNH) - Only one hospital in Connecticut offers the the third eye enhanced colonoscopy, the latest technology for screening colon cancer.

Gastroenterologist Dr. Seth Gross at Norwalk Hospital can better pinpoint polyps.

Dr. Seth Gross of the Norwalk Hospital said, "We know the colon is not a smooth pipe, and the colon could have blind spots, we call them folds."

The 3rd eye retroscope automatically bends and passes through the traditional scope.

"The camera is coming out at the tip of the colonoscope and automatically it goes into this retro-flection," said Dr. Gross. "It's almost like a rear view mirror but of your colon."

The hospital is the first in the state to offer this latest technology. It allows doctors to see the front and back side of colon walls.

"You could see 99 percent of the colon which is more than what you see with the traditional colonoscope and that allows us to detect more polyps," said Dr. Gross. On average some 20 percent more.

Dr. Gross found a polyp while screening Gerry Sanders that could have been precancerous.

Sanders said, "I've probably had 5 or 6 colonoscopies at this point in my life. My mother died from colon cancer."

The majority of people diagnosed do not have a family history.

"Had he not used the 3rd eye? he might not have found it. He might not have found it," said Sanders.

Screening is key, that's why this hospital also provides painless unsedated colonoscopy using magnetic endo-scopic imaging. It's for people on the go -- who don't have time for a traditional colonoscopy.

Sanders said, "I think taking advantage of new technology is a no brainer."

Colonoscopies are recommended for people 50 years old and over.

Colon cancer is the 2nd leading cancer related cause of death for both men and women but through screening, it can be easily prevented.