Virtual Colonoscopy and CT Colonography
This exciting imaging innovation, also known as CT colonography, has recently been made possible by the developments of faster and higher resolution CT scanners and more powerful computers for 3D imaging. Virtual Colonoscopy offers a new less-invasive alternative to conventional colonoscopy for colon cancer screening.
Advantages:
- less invasive and safer with no perforation or sedation risks
- no sedation needed
- substantially lower cost
- offers complete colonic exam in patients with tortuosity or tumor that may prevent passage of a colonoscope
- can assess colonic wall thickness and structures outside the colonic lumen
Disadvantages:
- not entirely noninvasive - requires rectal tube and insufflation
- same cleansing prep as for colonoscopy
- inability to perform biopsy of suspicious findings at time of exam may require additional follow-up conventional colonoscopy
- less sensitivity for detection of very small polyps and superficial mucosal abnormalities than with colonoscopy
For additional information about virtual colonoscopy from RadiologyInfo.org, click here.
Virtual Colonoscopy is available at our Oldsmar and South Tampa locations.
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