What is Virtual Colonoscopy?
Introducing a Revolutionary Method to Screen for Colon Polyps
and Cancer---EBCT Colonography (Virtual Colonoscopy).
Imagine, instead of undergoing an invasive procedure
with a colonoscope inserted under sedation (after a harsh bowel preparation),
you now have an option---the quicker gentler noninvasive
procedure at CHBI!
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. EBT 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. 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:
- Easy preparation the day before (no harsh purging or laxatives)
- 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 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 70% of the interior of the colon; some areas might be
hidden behind bowel folds |
| Complications |
| No 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 with harsh medicine and longer special diet to allow proper
viewing |
| Time Required |
| 20 minutes |
Half day at a surgical
center/clinic |
| Procedure |
| A miniature
rubber tube is inserted 1 inch by client or technician. This device
allows air to expand the colon for easy viewing |
Telescope
tube of 1.5 inches in diameter travels 5 feet into large intestine |
| Cost |
| $875 |
Usually over $1200 |
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