What
is Virtual Colonoscopy?
Introducing a Revolutionary Method to Screen for
Colon Polyps and Cancer---CT
Colonography (Virtual Colonoscopy).
Imagine, instead of undergoing
an invasive procedure with a colonoscope inserted under sedation
(after a major bowel preparation),
you now have an option---the
quicker gentler minimally invasive procedure at FRPI!
The Procedure:
Our center will advise each patient about
the
required
preparatory diet and bowel cleansing. The patient arrives at the
facility and changes into a suitable gown. A small disposable tube is
inserted rectally a couple of inches by the patient or technologist and
the colon is inflated with carbon dioxide using a safe high tech
insufflator. CT imaging proceeds taking very thin slice pictures of the
entire colon in both the supine and prone positions.
Advanced workstation and imaging
reconstruction is performed using the Viatronix system, the most
advanced and accurate 3D rendering technology ever developed for CT
colon examination. Experienced, Board certified radiologists review 2D
and 3D images of the entire colon and create a report for the patient
and doctor (if requested). The software allows review of 100% of the
colon surface, something that is not accomplished with conventional
invasive colon exams.
Consider these key advantages:
- Moderate preparation the day before (no harsh purging)
- Noninvasive and safe—no risk of bowel perforation
- Complete accurate visualization—able to see 100% of
the colon surface routinely and able to look for abdominal disease
outside of colon by CT scan. Lesions as small as 3 mm seen.
- Quick-procedure finished in 15-20 minutes
- No recovery period—no sedation required, therefore
return to activities in minutes
- Inexpensive—total cost is often less than half of a
conventional colonoscopy exam
Virtual Colon Scan vs. Traditional Colonoscopy
|
OUR CT COLON SCAN |
COLONOSCOPY |
| Diagnostic Power |
|
Sees 100% of the interior and exterior colon,
including behind the bowel fold where polyps can hide |
Typically only sees 80% of the interior of the colon;
some areas might be hidden behind bowel folds |
|
Complications |
| No
measurable risk of perforation or serious complications |
Possibility of perforation or serious complications |
| Anesthesia |
|
No anesthesia necessary |
Must receive anesthesia; invasive and carries a risk
of significant complications |
|
Recovery |
| Can
resume normal activity immediately |
Must recovery from the anesthesia and cannot drive following the
procedure. |
| Preparation |
|
More gentle laxative bowel preparations and shorter special diet
because computer can electronically "cleanse" residue stool from
photos |
Bowel must be vigorously cleansed. |
| Time Required |
| 20
minutes |
Half day at a surgical center/clinic |
|
Procedure |
|
A miniature rubber tube is inserted 1 inch by client
or technologist. This device allows air to expand the colon for easy
viewing |
Flexible tube travels 5 feet into large intestine |
|
Cost |
|
$775 |
Usually over $1700 |
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