”CT Colonoscopy is a simple, non-invasive examination to evaluate the colon for polyps and tumors. Its widespread use could really increase the number of patients who are screened. We could save a lot of lives because we would be finding colonic problems far earlier and in greater numbers.” Shawn P. Qullin, MD, Mecklenburg Radiology Associates
Physicians recommend that every adult over age 50 should have a colonoscopy to check for polyps, which can be removed before cancer has a chance to develop. Screening guidelines call for the test to be repeated every seven to 10 years. Those at higher risk – family history of polyps or colon cancer, diagnosed polyps or blood in the stool - should be screened every five years. One of the newest methods of screening for colon cancer, is what is called virtual colonoscopy or CT colonoscopy. This exam, uses CT technology to look inside the colon, providing images that are comparable to a traditional invasive colonoscopy. CT colonoscopy can show polyps, lesions and other problems inside the colon or large intestines.
Using CT technology to provide three-dimensional images, the radiologist can see details inside the bowel that are similar to what is seen during a traditional colonoscopy. A traditional colonoscopy is a minimally invasive procedure performed under light sedation while an endoscopy travels through the colon and takes pictures. CT colonoscopy does not require any medications or an endoscope, but uses air, which is induced into the colon. The air helps open up the colon to give an unobstructed view.
The exam is especially helpful in patients who do not want a more invasive exam, older adults who may not tolerate the traditional procedure and patients who are at risk for complications from colonoscopy due to a health problem. CT colonography is also a less invasive option for patients who do not wish to have colonoscopy, which involves inserting a flexible tube into the colon to view the bowel wall.
”CT Colonoscopy is a simple, non-invasive examination to evaluate the colon for polyps and tumors. Its widespread use could really increase the number of patients who are screened. We could save a lot of lives because we would be finding colonic problems far earlier and in greater numbers.” Shawn P. Qullin, MD, Mecklenburg Radiology Associates
Physicians recommend that every adult over age 50 should have a colonoscopy to check for polyps, which can be removed before cancer has a chance to develop. Screening guidelines call for the test to be repeated every seven to 10 years. Those at higher risk – family history of polyps or colon cancer, diagnosed polyps or blood in the stool - should be screened every five years. One of the newest methods of screening for colon cancer, is what is called virtual colonoscopy or CT colonoscopy. This exam, uses CT technology to look inside the colon, providing images that are comparable to a traditional invasive colonoscopy. CT colonoscopy can show polyps, lesions and other problems inside the colon or large intestines.
Using CT technology to provide three-dimensional images, the radiologist can see details inside the bowel that are similar to what is seen during a traditional colonoscopy. A traditional colonoscopy is a minimally invasive procedure performed under light sedation while an endoscopy travels through the colon and takes pictures. CT colonoscopy does not require any medications or an endoscope, but uses air, which is induced into the colon. The air helps open up the colon to give an unobstructed view.
The exam is especially helpful in patients who do not want a more invasive exam, older adults who may not tolerate the traditional procedure and patients who are at risk for complications from colonoscopy due to a health problem. CT colonography is also a less invasive option for patients who do not wish to have colonoscopy, which involves inserting a flexible tube into the colon to view the bowel wall.