WHAT IS VIRTUAL COLONOSCOPY: Virtual colonoscopy is a CT scan of your abdomen and pelvis after the colon has been gently filled with air. The scan is then sent to a computer workstation where the data is analyzed.
IS IT PAINFUL: Most people describe the test as mildly unconfortable. This is due to the need to insufflate air into the colon. Studies have shown that people rate the virtual exam as less uncomfortable than the traditional study.
RISKS: As opposed to tradtional colonoscopies where there is a 1 in 1000 chance of pefortating the colon, CT colonoscopy has no such risk. The only risk is the small amount of radiation from the scan.
PREPARTION: You will be given a bowel cleansing prep that you will have to take beginning 24 hours prior to your exam.
HOW LONG DOES THE EXAM TAKE: The exam is very short with the CT imaging being less than 1 minute. Your total time on the table will be about 10 minutes. This includes set-up time. Your colon will be filled with air for appoximately 1-2 minutes.
ACCURACY: Recent studies have shown detection rates of 90-95% for polyps greater than 1cm in size. This is important since polyps smaller than this have a much lesser chance of being pre-cursors to cancer.
BENEFITS: Because CT Colonosopy images the entire abdominal and pelvis, we are able to see other abdominal organs. This includes the liver, kidneys, and spleen. While this may lead to additonal testing, early liver and kindey cancers as well as kidney stones can be detected.
SCHEDULING: Please call 847 618 3700 to schedule your exam.