Virtual Colonoscopy

________________________________________________________________________

KEY POINTS

• A virtual colonoscopy is a CT scan of your large intestine, also called the colon. X-rays are taken from different angles, and a computer creates detailed views of your rectum and large intestine.
• A virtual colonoscopy is used to check for growths or cancer, or to find the cause of symptoms such as diarrhea, rectal bleeding, or other problems in your intestines.
• You will be given instructions for clearing bowel movements from your intestines. Be sure to complete the bowel preparation as instructed, including what types of food and drink you can have in the days leading up to the procedure.

________________________________________________________________________

What is a virtual colonoscopy?

A virtual colonoscopy (VC) is a CT scan of your large intestine, also called the colon. X-rays are taken from different angles, and a computer creates detailed views of your rectum and large intestine. It is also called computerized tomographic colonography.

A VC is not the same as a colonoscopy. A colonoscopy uses a thin, flexible, lighted tube and tiny camera put through your rectum and into your large intestine. It can help your provider find and remove growths (polyps) that might become cancer.

When is it used?

A VC is most often done to screen for polyps or tumors. If you have symptoms such as diarrhea, rectal bleeding, losing weight without trying to, intestinal problems or belly pain, you may have this test to try to find the cause of your symptoms.

A VC may be done instead of a colonoscopy if:

• You are elderly or have health conditions such as breathing or bleeding problems.
• Your provider wants to examine more than just the inside of your colon, such as your organs or large blood vessels in your abdomen.
• Your intestines are blocked and you can’t have a colonoscopy.

There is no evidence that VC is a good way to diagnose ulcerative colitis, Crohn's disease, or inflammatory bowel disease.

How do I prepare for this procedure?

• Find someone to give you a ride home after the procedure. You will not be allowed to drive yourself home.
• Tell your provider if you are or think you may be pregnant, or if you have any metal implants such as an artificial joint or a pacemaker.
• Your healthcare provider will tell you when to stop eating and drinking before the procedure.
• You will be given instructions for clearing bowel movements from your intestines. Be sure to complete the bowel preparation as instructed, including what types of food and drink you can have in the days leading up to the procedure. The exam may not be done or may have to be repeated if your intestine still has bowel movement in it. Medicines used to prepare for this procedure will cause you to have several watery bowel movements until only clear movements occur. Stay close to the bathroom after you take the medicine. Talk to your pharmacist or healthcare provider about other symptoms you might have.
• The night before the procedure, you will drink a liquid that contains a special dye, called contrast dye.
• You may or may not need to take your regular medicines the day of the procedure. Tell your healthcare provider about all medicines and supplements that you take. Some products may increase your risk of side effects. Ask your healthcare provider if you need to avoid taking any medicine or supplements before the procedure.
• Tell your healthcare provider if you have any food, medicine, or other allergies such as latex.
• Wear comfortable clothing that has no metal zippers, buttons, or hooks. Leave your watch and jewelry at home.
• Follow any other instructions your healthcare provider gives you.
• Ask any questions you have before the procedure. You should understand what your healthcare provider is going to do. You have the right to make decisions about your healthcare and to give permission for any tests or procedures.

What happens during this procedure?

This procedure may be done in an outpatient clinic or hospital.

Air will be gently passed into your intestines through a tube in your rectum so that your provider can see as much of the colon as possible. You will lie down on a moving table that will slide into the scanner. The CT scanner is a large machine with a tunnel in the center. Inside the scanner, many X-ray beams are passed quickly through your body at different angles. You will need to stay still during the scan so that the pictures will not be blurry. You may be asked to turn on your side or stomach to get different images of your large intestine. The procedure takes about 10 to 15 minutes.

Images of your body will be seen on a computer screen and prepared for your healthcare provider to examine later.

What happens after this procedure?

After the procedure, it is normal to have gas and mild cramps for a few hours. This will last until your body passes the extra air. Usually, you can go home soon after the test. If you were given medicine to help you relax, you will be watched carefully until you are fully awake and alert. This may take 15 minutes to 2 hours.

Follow your healthcare provider's instructions. Ask your provider:

• How long it will take to recover
• If there are activities you should avoid and when you can return to your normal activities
• How to take care of yourself at home
• What symptoms or problems you should watch for and what to do if you have them

Make sure you know when you should come back for a checkup. Keep all appointments for provider visits or tests.

What are the risks of this procedure?

Every procedure or treatment has risks. Some possible risks of this procedure include:

• The radiation you get from a CT scan may cause a small increase in your lifetime risk of developing cancer.
• In rare cases, you may have an allergic reaction to medicines used during the procedure.
• If you are pregnant, there is a risk the X-rays will hurt the baby.
• Your colon or other parts of your body may be injured during the procedure.

Ask your healthcare provider how the risks apply to you. Be sure to discuss any other questions or concerns that you may have.