Downloadable brochure - Virtual Colonoscopy
What is Virtual Colonoscopy?
This procedure is an examination of the large bowel (colon). It demonstrates the anatomy of the bowel and also gives an indication of abnormalities. The procedure is performed on the CT (computed tomography) scanner after inflation of the bowel with air. The air is introduced through a soft catheter placed in the rectum.
The procedure may be performed as an alternative to a colonoscopy or barium enema examination. The indications will have been explained to you by your doctor.
Preparation
You will need to prepare for this procedure using the special preparation kit available from our rooms. This will clearly explain the need to have the bowel correctly prepared before the examination. Please contact the practice you are attending for further details.
Procedure
You will be asked to change into a gown as shadows from your clothes may cause confusing lines on the images. You will lie on the x-ray table and a small flexible lubricated tube is placed into the bowel opening. The tube is disposable and used only once.
Air is then passed into the bowel through this tubing. There may be a feeling of stretching or mild discomfort in the abdomen.
Minor discomfort may persist for a short time after the examination. An intravenous injection may be given to relax the bowel and in some patients this will help to reduce discomfort and improve the ease of interpretation of the images.
You will be asked to hold your breath for about twenty seconds while the films are being taken. After the films have been taken, the air will be drained away, the tube removed and you may dress.
It is recommended that you have a responsible adult to accompany you home by private means, as in some cases loose bowel motions occur.
Examination and Reporting Time
Two series of images are taken, one with the patient lying face up and one face down. Each scan takes less than 30 seconds. The entire procedure including preparation time takes approximately 20 minutes.
Processing of the images takes considerable time as there are many images to review on a high powered computer workstation. The images produced are interpreted by the radiologist (a doctor trained to interpret x-rays and medical images). You can either wait for your results or alternative arrangements can be made to collect them at a later stage.