Colonoscopy (cont.)
Virtual Colonoscopy
Another alternative to colonoscopy is
virtual colonoscopy. Virtual
colonoscopy is a technique that uses a CAT scan to construct virtual images of
the colon that are similar to the views of the colon obtained by direct
observation through optical colonoscopy.
In preparation for the virtual colonoscopy, the day before the examination,
the colon is cleaned-out using laxatives. During the examination a tube is
inserted into the anus and is used to inject air into the colon. The CT scans
then are performed, and the scans are analyzed and manipulated to form a virtual
image of the colon. When properly performed, virtual colonoscopy can be
effective. It can even find polyps "hiding" behind folds that occasionally
are missed by colonoscopy.
Nevertheless, virtual colonoscopy has several limitations.
- Virtual colonoscopy cannot find small polyps (less than 5mm in size) that
are easily seen at colonoscopy.
- Virtual colonoscopy is not as accurate as colonoscopy at finding flat
cancers or premalignant lesions that are not protruding, that is, are not
polyp-like.
- Virtual colonoscopy cannot remove polyps. Thirty to forty percent of
people have colon polyps. If polyps are found by virtual colonoscopy, then
colonoscopy must be done to remove the polyps, therefore, many individuals
having virtual colonoscopy will have to undergo a second procedure,
colonoscopy.
Because of these limitations, virtual colonoscopy has not replaced
colonoscopy as the primary screening tool for individuals at normal or high risk
for polyps or colon cancer. It is currently a good option for individuals who
cannot or will not undergo colonoscopy
Final Word
You have been given this information so you would be
knowledgeable about
colonoscopy. If you have further questions about the need for
the
procedure, alternative methods, the cost of the procedure and
whether
covered by your insurance, do not hesitate to speak to your
doctor or
his/her staff. Most endoscopists are highly trained specialists
and
welcome your questions regarding their training, credentials,
or any other
questions you might have.
Last Editorial Review: 5/17/2005
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