Virtual colonoscopy

This new technology makes use of computed tomography (CT) to get a picture of the colon without actually going inside it. In this procedure, you have a CT scan (a highly sensitive X-ray) of your colon. Sophisticated computer imaging software then manipulates the scan so that your doctor can view all portions of the colon.

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Although patients avoid the discomfort and risks of having an instrument inserted into their colon, they still must rid their bowels of stool beforehand with enemas, laxatives, and/or special fluids. The physician expands the colon gently by pumping air into it through the rectum. No sedation is required. If a polyp is discovered in a regular colonoscopy, the doctor can immediately remove it. By contrast, if one is discovered with a virtual colonoscopy, the patient must then have a regular colonoscopy.

This is a relatively new test. But research suggests that when experienced doctors use the latest equipment, it is about as accurate as a regular colonoscopy.