What is a Virtual Colonoscopy?
Virtual Colonoscopy is a non-invasive, highly accurate test that allows doctors to look at the large bowel (colon) to detect polyps and cancers in the early stages. It is a recently developed screening technique that uses a CT scanner and computer graphic software to produce images of the colon through which the radiologist can “navigate.”
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Why should I get a Virtual Colonoscopy?
Colorectal cancer is a leading cause of cancer-related death in the United States. Colon cancer can be
prevented if polyps are discovered and removed early. Virtual Colonoscopy enables early detection of polyps and cancers.
The image on the left shows polyps detected by Virtual Colonoscopy.
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Who should have a colorectal screening?
The American Cancer Society recommends patients seek colorectal cancer screening as early as age 50
and every 3-5 years thereafter. Patients with a strong family history of colorectal cancer or polyps should
be screened more often.
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What are the symptoms of colorectal cancer?
Some symptoms of colorectal cancer include:
- Change in bowel habits such as diarrhea or constipation
- Rectal bleeding or blood in the stool
- Cramping or abdominal pain
- Decreased appetite
- Weakness and fatigue
- Jaundice (yellow-green discoloration of skin and white part of the eyes)
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What is conventional Colonoscopy?
In conventional Colonoscopy, a long thin scope is inserted into the colon. This procedure typically uses
sedation for the patient’s comfort. A tiny camera in the scope transmits images of the colon to a monitor
for the doctor to review. The total procedure time is 30-60 minutes.
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Virtual Colonoscopy vs. conventional Colonoscopy
| Type of Examination |
Virtual Colonoscopy Screening |
Conventional Colonoscopy |
| Method used to examine colon |
CT Imaging |
Scope |
| Organs screened in the procedure |
Colon and organs in abdomen & pelvis |
Colon |
| Sedation used |
No |
Yes |
| Oral preparations used to clear colon |
Yes |
Yes |
| Timeframe for actual procedure |
15-20 minutes |
30-60 minutes |
| Physician referral required |
No |
Yes |
| Biopsy possible for abnormalities |
No |
Yes |
| Recovery timeframe |
Immediately after procedure |
After recovering from sedation |
Virtual Colonoscopy is more comfortable than a conventional Colonoscopy screening because it does not
require a colon scope or sedation. Virtual Colonoscopy also takes less time than a conventional
Colonoscopy. Another advantage of Virtual Colonoscopy is that organs surrounding the colon can also be
screened for abnormalities.
Sometimes conventional Colonoscopy may result in an incomplete exam due to bowel obstructions.
There is a slightly greater chance of having a complete exam with a Virtual Colonoscopy. Unlike the
conventional exam, the radiologist cannot take tissue samples or remove polyps during a Virtual
Colonoscopy. A conventional Colonoscopy may be needed to investigate abnormalities discovered on the
virtual exam.
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What is the preparation for a Virtual Colonoscopy?
This procedure requires oral preparations to clear stool from your colon. An oral contrast medium is also
taken the day prior to your scan. After the scan, you can immediately return to your normal routine. Print the Virtual Colonoscopy Preparation sheet.
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What does the Virtual Colonoscopy procedure involve?
The procedure will begin by having air introduced into the colon through a small
enema tip. This allows distention of the colon to enable the CT scanner to take detailed 3D images. The
procedure requires you to lie comfortably on the scanning table first on your back and then on your
stomach.
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Is it painful or uncomfortable?
When air is introduced into the colon some patients may experience temporary abdominal
cramping or “gas pains.”
How long will the exam take?
Plan to spend about 1 hour at our center for the Virtual Colonoscopy. The scanning time for the study is
approximately 15-20 minutes.
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How long will I have to wait for the results?
After your exam, a board-certified radiologist will review your CT images. As with other procedures
offered at Radiology Regional Center, confidential reports will be generated and mailed to you within 72
business hours. In the event of a positive test, the report will be sent to your referring physician at your
request.
How accurate is Virtual Colonoscopy?
Recent medical research, including studies published in the New England Journal of Medicine, suggest
that Virtual Colonoscopy is nearly as accurate as the conventional Colonoscopy screening in detecting
significant polyps. Research is ongoing.
Why should I go to Radiology Regional Center for this exam?
Radiology Regional Center has been providing high-quality diagnostic services in Southwest Florida for
over 35 years. The Center is owned and operated by an innovative and devoted group of board-certified
radiologists educated at distinguished institutions such as Duke, Harvard and Mount Sinai.
The skills required to interpret virtual studies are different from those required for conventional
Colonoscopy. Virtual Colonoscopy requires a radiologist trained in reconstructing and interpreting the
images from the CT scanner.
How much does a Virtual Colonoscopy cost and is it covered by insurance?
We are currently offering the Virtual Colonoscopy health screening at an introductory price of $495. Since the Virtual Colonoscopy is a screening
exam, it’s not covered by Medicare or private insurance. Full payment is required at the time of service.
Where is this procedure offered?
How can I schedule a Virtual Colonoscopy?
To schedule your Virtual Colonoscopy, call 239.931.6399.
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More questions? Give us a call!
To speak with a Virtual Colonoscopy representative at Radiology Regional Center, call Monday-Friday 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. EST, 239.931.6399. Return to top
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