VELscope Enhanced Oral Cancer Screening
When caught early, oral cancers—those affecting the lip, mouth and upper throat—have a very high survival rate. However, many people do not notice symptoms in the early stages. This is why Dr. Crawford offers VELscope enhanced oral cancer screening to his patients. An advanced diagnostic tool, the VELscope resembles a small flashlight. The handheld scope emits a bright blue light. During an examination for oral cancer, Dr. Crawford or the hygienist directs the blue light into the patient's mouth. If suspicious cells are present, even under the surface, they will appear as irregular dark areas. When this occurs, the patient is scheduled for an OralCDx Brush Biopsy so that Dr. Crawford may obtain a sample of the suspicious cells.
