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Patient Instructions for Virtual Colonography
For our patients: Please note that our virtual colonoscopy procedure involves insertion of a small enema tip into the rectum so the colon can be inflated with carbon dioxide to allow visualization. This commonly causes a brief period of discomfort, cramping or the sensation that an “accident” will occur during the inflation sequences. Our CT techs will guide you all the way.
The images acquired during scanning are then sent to an advanced FDA approved workstation for both 2D and 3D reconstruction so that the radiologist can examine the colon and the entire abdomen in all possible formats.
Please note: If an abnormality is found, it will require a consultation with your doctor and possible removal by a separate procedure. In many cases, smaller polyps can be followed over the years without immediate removal. We advise you visit with your doctor for regular examinations including yearly fecal occult blood testing (stool blood test).
You may return to normal eating habits and activities upon completion of the examination.
Your results will be mailed to you and your physician.
Finally, most patients find the procedure and the prep easy. However, significant minorities of patients find either the prep arduous or the procedure more difficult than anticipated, perhaps due to bowel spasms, etc. Although most people will feel well enough to drive home, it is prudent to have a friend “on call” in case you do not feel up to driving.
The Day Before Your Exam
All Day: Follow a restricted diet consisting of clear liquids (only clear soup, juice, carbonated drinks and water). Drink plenty of fluid throughout the day to avoid dehydration. Ensure that you have easy access to a restroom.
Time Instruction
9:00 AM
Drink 1 cup of reconstituted E-Z Cat barium (reconstitute one package with 2 cups water shake well makes 2 doses)12:00 PM
Take four (4) bisacodyl tablets with remaining 1 cup reconstituted E-Z CAT barium3:00 PM
Drink 45ml (1 bottle) of sodium phosphate prep with 8oz of apple juice or clear carbonated drink.Follow this with 4-8 cups of water throughout the afternoon.
6:00 PM Drink 45ml (1 bottle) of sodium phosphate prep with 8oz of apple juice or clear carbonated drink.
Follow this with 4-8 cups of water throughout the evening
The Day of your Exam
Time Instruction
1-1 1/2 hours before your procedure:
Insert suppository into rectum retain for as long as possible. This is to help eliminate any residual gas or fecal material.NOTE:
Please do not eat or drink anything (except small amounts of water) until your exam on the day of your procedure.