State University of New York at Stony Brook researchers have developed software for virtual colonoscopy (using CT scans) that detects smaller polyps and requires less preparation than current virtual colonoscopy methods.

The software can differentiate between different body tissues (and non-tissues), allowing the scan to only show colon tissues. The software approaches the accuracy of invasive colonoscopy methods without their uncomfortable preparation and procedures.

Colorectal cancer is the second largest cause of cancer deaths in the U.S.