CT Virtual Colonoscopy
Virtual Colonoscopy, or CT Colonography, is a minimally invasive diagnostic tool that utilizes a CT scan for routine colorectal screening to discover polyps and cancer at their most treatable stages. Your virtual colonoscopy exam provides advantages, such as:
- The procedure requires no sedation, so no ‘down time’
- Only a small amount of air is introduced to insufflate the colon, so cramps are minimal or absent
- The ultra-fast CT scanning provides accurate polyp measurements and visualization of polyps as small as 3mm
Am I a candidate for Virtual Colonoscopy?
Average-risk individuals are candidates for screening, such as healthy people age 50 and older, who want to receive an exam for polyps and cancer without enduring some of the ‘down time’ and discomfort associated with a traditional colonoscopy. If detected early, colon cancers may almost always be cured. Virtual Colonoscopy is a screening exam and is not for individuals who are symptomatic. Occasionally, a physician will refer patients for CT Colonoscopy due to medical necessity, such as intestinal obstructions or drug indications.
Planning for your procedure
Cleansing of the bowel is required prior to the exam. Our imaging center provides you with a kit that consists of low-density foods. Our staff also instructs you concerning drinking clear liquids and other preparations.
The exam lasts approximately ten minutes. While you are lying on an exam table, air is introduced into your colon through a thin tube to distend the bowel. This procedure allows polyps to stand out, if present.
You may return to normal activities following the exam.
New ACS Guidelines for Colorectal Cancer Screening: Start Earlier
CT Colonoscopy: A Recommended Screening Option On May 30, 2018, the American Cancer Society updated its colorectal cancer screening guidelines for people at average risk. The new ACS recommendation states [...]
