A virtual colonoscopy, the CT alternative to a conventional colonoscopy, uses computed tomography (CT) to examine the colon and rectum for presence of cancer or pre-cancerous polyps. Virtual colonoscopy can disclose tumors, bleeding, inflammatory bowel disease and diverticulosis.

A small soft tip rectal tube is placed to allow air into the colon. The patient is then scanned, first lying face up and then face down on the CT table. The recorded CT images are then assembled using a computer program that creates both 2 and 3-dimensional models that the radiologist examines for polyps and other colon abnormalities. The entire examination should take no longer than 30 minutes to complete.

PREPARATION:

To prepare for a virtual colonoscopy, the patient should follow a two-day low residual diet and use a bowel preparation kit obtained at one of our offices. Because no sedation is used for the exam, the patient may resume normal activity at its completion.