Virtual Colonoscopy
What is Virtual Colonoscopy?
Virtual Colonoscopy (VC) uses a CT scanner and specialized computer software to produce 2D and 3D images of the colon (large intestine) from the lowest part, the rectum, to its junction with the small intestine. Images in multiple planes are displayed on a computer screen and a video 3D “fly through” of the colon is generated that has a very similar appearance to standard colonoscopic view of the colon.
Why do Virtual Colonoscopy?
VC was developed as an alternative method to screen for colon cancer
and address the needs of patients unable or unwilling to undergo
the more invasive traditional colonoscopy exam, or in whom traditional
colonoscopy has technically failed or been incomplete. Virtual
colonoscopic exams are less invasive than the regular colonoscopy
in that no long fiber optic scope is inserted and maneuvered
through the entire colon as in traditional colonoscopy. Also, unlike
traditional colonoscopy, no sedation is necessary.
How is a Virtual Colonoscopy Performed?
For the exam, a small tip is inserted about two inches into the
rectum to gently inflate the colon with air for optimum visualization.
The CT images are then quickly obtained while the patient lies
comfortably on his or her back. Then repeat scanning is done
with the patient lying on his or her stomach. The resulting images
are computer reconstructed to provide views of the entire inside
of the colon in two positions.
You will be alone in the examining room during the procedure, but a technologist and nurse in the adjacent control room can see and hear you, and can speak to you at any time.
How do I prepare for my Virtual Colonoscopy Exam?
Prior to the exam a patient undergoes a bowel prep and special diet
to cleanse the colon. Adherence to this special diet and a bowel
preparation is very important to insure that the colon is adequately
cleansed for more accurate assessment.
At the time of scheduling you will be instructed to come to our Red Creek Drive office 3 days before your appointment to pick up a prep kit. The prep kit contains diet instructions, oral contrast agents, and the laxatives required. The instructions will be reviewed with you by one of our technologists or nurses when you pick up the kit.
The day before your exam: A clear liquid diet and bowel prep kit are necessary to clean out the colon for this exam. The bowel preparation kit contains laxatives and oral contrast. The oral contrast will help to highlight any remaining fecal matter on the CT images.
12:00 pm - Take two (2) bisacodyl tablets.
3:00 pm - Drink 45 ml (one bottle) of undiluted or three (3) tablespoons of Fleet-Phospho Soda mixed with eight (8) ounces of juice or a clear carbonated drink. Follow this with four (4) to eight (8) cups of clear liquids throughout the afternoon. From this time on, you will probably begin to have closely spaced bowel movements. You will want to be close to a restroom.
6:00 pm - Drink 250 ml of barium. Please note: a second dose of the Fleet-Phospho Soda is needed only if the first, taken at 3 pm does not result in bowel movements, which are becoming watery. Whether or not you take the second dose, drink four (4) to eight (8) cups of clear liquids throughout the evening.
9:00 pm - Drink 60 ml of Gastroview undiluted or four (4) tablespoons mixed in eight (8) ounces of clear juice or a carbonated beverage. You may continue to drink clear liquids until midnight.
Bowel Preparation Complete
The day of the exam - Do not eat or drink anything from midnight until the exam is complete. However, you may take your regular medications as directed with small sips of water.
Please call if you have any questions about the preparation or your exam
All VC exams are done in the morning at our Red Creek office.
Other important information:
The vast majority of patients who have VC report a feeling of fullness when the colon is inflated with air, as if they need to pass gas. The amount of cramping felt varies with patients but most find this minimal.
Because sedation is not required, patients are free to leave the CT suite immediately following the exam without the need for prolonged observation or recovery. Patients can resume normal activities immediately after the procedure and can eat, work or drive without delay.
Because this is an x-ray test it should not be performed if the patient is pregnant.
Currently most insurance plans do NOT pay for VC. However, MEDICARE does pay for the exam if a patient has previously had a failed or incomplete traditional colonoscopy, or is on blood thinners. If the exam is not covered by insurance, the cost is $500.
How will I get my results?
After your scan is completed, the images are reconstituted with special computer software to provide views of the inside of the colon. The study is then interpreted by our radiologists. A full report of the findings is forwarded to your referring physician, who will discuss findings and any recommendations with you.