Virtual colonoscopy guide
http://www.allieddiagnostics.net/patient-guides/virtual-colonoscopy-guide/
How do I prepare for my scan?
It is necessary to have a clean bowel for your virtual colonoscopy. You will be required to collect a preparation kit from Allied Diagnostics containing bowel cleansing system with a tagging or marking suspension composed of Barium Sulfate. The preparation should be taken 24 hours prior to the exam, it is essential that the instructions in the kit be followed exactly, in addition you will be required to fast 12 hours prior to your scan. The success of the virtual colonoscopy depends on proper cleansing preparation, this will be explained to you in detail by the CT technologist at the time of collecting your preparation kit.
If you have any questions about this procedure or the preparation our CT technologists are available to discuss your queries.
What can I expect during my virtual colonoscopy?
When you arrive at Allied Diagnostics for your virtual colonoscopy, you will be greeted by our staff at the front desk and escorted to a private waiting room. At this time, our CT technologist will conduct a personal interview with you that will include questions about your family medical history and risk factors you may have for colorectal cancer.
Next, you will be taken to a dressing room and asked to change into an examination gown. You will then be lead to the CT suite where a CT technologist will position you on the table of our GE scanner. A small tube will be inserted into the rectum to inflate the colon with CO2. You will feel some discomfort while the colon is full of CO2. However, this discomfort is immediately relieved once the images are taken and the CO2 is removed from the colon.
Once the bowel is inflated, you will be asked to lie on your back for the first set of images. Scout views will be taken to locate the colon within your abdomen and pelvis. You will be asked to hold your breath for 20 to 30 seconds. Holding your breath is very important because it eliminates blurring of the image that is caused by motion of the abdomen and pelvis during breathing.
After the first set of images is taken, the CO2 will be pumped out of your colon. You will then be asked to turn over onto your stomach so that a second set of images can be taken. Images are taken when you are both on your back and on your stomach to improve the expansion of the colon and to move any residual liquid or fecal matter. This ensures that material inside the colon is not mistaken as a polyp. CO2 will be pumped into your colon again and you will be asked to hold your breath for another 10 to 15 seconds. After all the images have been taken, the CO2 will be pumped out of the colon and you will feel completely normal with no discomfort.
How safe is virtual colonoscopy?
Unlike conventional colonoscopy, there is no risk of perforation, bleeding, or complications from sedation with virtual colonoscopy.
When will I get the results?
The results of your scan will be sent to your referring physician within 24 hours of your exam. Your report and images will include a summary of the radiologist’s findings and recommendations for further follow-up.
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