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Virtual Colonoscopy

Virtual CT Colonoscopy, also called CT colonography, is one of the newest, most advanced non-invasive methods for colon cancer screening. Spiral CT (computed tomographic) images of the abdomen and pelvis are acquired after introducing air into the colon via a small rectal tube. The entire exam lasts only a few minutes. Expert radiologists using sophisticated computers with three-dimensional imaging capabilities interpret the images.

Virtual CT Colonoscopy is extremely safe. Patients find the exam more comfortable than other screening exams including barium enemas and conventional colonoscopy. Bowel preparation is required, but there is no recovery time necessary after the procedure and one can immediately resume normal activities. As with all examinations requiring X-RAYs, there is a small amount of radiation exposure similar to a standard barium enema.

Initial reports are promising and show that Virtual CT Colonoscopy has similar sensitivity to barium enemas and conventional colonoscopy in the detection of clinically important polyps (i.e. those that exceed 10mm in diameter). Conventional colonoscopy is still considered the gold standard with the added advantage of being able to remove polyps and perform biopsies at the same time of the diagnostic study. Conventional colonoscopy, however, is more invasive, costly and cannot be completed in a small percentage of patients.

You should have Virtual CT Colonoscopy as a method of cancer screening if your doctor recommends it after a discussion of the alternatives. Colorectal cancer is the third most commonly diagnosed cancer and the second leading cause of cancer deaths in the United States. Reductions in colon cancer deaths can be achieved through early detection and treatment.

In general, any patient over 50 should be screened for colon cancer. If you have a family history of colon cancer, screening should be performed earlier. It is best to discuss the various options with your doctor so that the most appropriate exam can be performed based on your history, physical examination and other potential risk factors.


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