General Radiography (x-rays)
CT Colon Cancer Screening - Virtual Colonoscopy
CT Virtual Colonoscopy (CT VC) is a new technique for colon and rectal carcinoma screening using Computed Tomography (CT) imaging.
Common Uses for the Procedure
Your referring physician may request this test instead of another screening procedure such as standard colonoscopy, sigmoidoscopy, or barium enema. A board-certified radiologist analyzes the images of the colon, obtained during the procedure, to detect polyps or masses within the colon that may be cancerous.
The Procedure
A radiology technologist or nurse will insert a thin tube into the rectum, which will allow your colon to inflate gently with air. When your colon is full of air, we will quickly image your colon. You will receive instructions to hold your breath during imaging. Breathing while imaging occurs results in blurry images, which will reduce the quality of the examination. The procedure takes about 30 minutes to do—start to finish.
Symptoms after the Procedure
The symptom most likely experienced during and after the procedure is bloating, due primarily to the air insufflated into the colon during the exam.
Benefits
CT Virtual Colonoscopy has some advantages over the other screening tests since it does not require sedation or contrast injection into blood vessels. There is also no “scope” or “snake” or needles involved. The radiologist can also assess other structures in your abdomen and pelvis at the same time, including the Aorta, other internal organs, and bones within the region scanned.
Risks and Limitations of the Procedure
CT Virtual Colonoscopy is sensitive for detecting colon polyps and masses that are greater that 10 mm (about .4 inches). It may not be able to detect all polyps and masses smaller than 10 mm. If a colon abnormality is identified by this test, you may have to proceed to colonoscopy for biopsy. If abnormalities of the Aorta, other internal organs, or skeletal structures are found, this may lead to additional medical imaging and possible biopsy or surgery. There is exposure to x-ray radiation during this study, and this exam should therefore not be performed if you are pregnant. If you have any other questions about risk, please ask the radiologist.
Making an Appointment
Cardiac CT imaging is currently available at The Imaging Center (Harmony Campus) in Fort Collins, Colorado, and The Imaging Center (Centerra Campus) in Loveland, Colorado. Additional information can be obtained by calling 970-282-2900 or 970-282-2912; a receptionist will direct you to someone who can answer your questions.