A virtual colonoscopy is a new, non-invasive screening method used to examine the stomach and rectum. This method is different from others because it uses modern CT scan technology to give a clear picture of the stomach. This helps doctors find health problems like polyps, inflammation, and cancer. A colonoscopy scan might be the best way to check the health of your gut without having to go through a painful process.

Key Insights About Virtual Colonoscopy

Another name for virtual colonoscopy is CT colonography. A CT camera is used to make three-dimensional pictures of your stomach and rectum. A doctor then looks at these pictures to find any problems. In contrast to a normal colonoscopy, this process does not involve putting a tube into the stomach. Instead, a small tube is put into the rectum to fill the colon with air or carbon dioxide so that it can be seen better.

Many people like this new method better than the old one because it is faster, more relaxing, and doesn't need sedation. It is important to keep in mind, though, that if problems are found during the scan, a regular colonoscopy may still be needed to look into them further or get rid of polyps.

How Does a Virtual Colonoscopy Work?

At the start of the process, the patient must use recommended laxatives to get rid of any stool in their stomach. This step makes sure that the CT camera can get a good picture of the walls of the stomach. The person getting the scan lies on a table that slides into the CT machine. As it goes around the body, the machine takes clear pictures of the stomach from different points.

The whole process doesn't take more than 15 to 20 minutes. Since it doesn't use any invasive tools, there isn't much healing time. Patients can usually go back to their normal lives right away after the scan.

Benefits of a Virtual Colonoscopy

One of the best things about a virtual colonoscopy is that it doesn't hurt you. Unlike other ways, it doesn't need sedation and doesn't have the risks that come with putting an instrument into the stomach. It's a great choice for people who aren't sure about getting a regular colonoscopy scan because of this.

Other than that, the process works very well at finding polyps and other problems. Doctors can find problems early, often before symptoms appear, due to its improved imaging powers. This gives treatment a better chance of working. People with busy schedules may also be interested in this process because it is easy and doesn't take long.

Who Should Consider a Virtual Colonoscopy?

Colon cancer patients 45 years or older who have a normal risk should get a virtual colonoscopy. Additionally, it is a good choice for people who can't get a regular colonoscopy scan for medical or personal reasons. However, it is not suitable for everyone. People who have had colon polyps, inflammatory bowel disease, or a strong family history of colon cancer may still need a standard test to get a more complete picture.

Limitations of a Virtual Colonoscopy

A virtual colonoscopy has many benefits, but it also has some problems. During the scan, it is unable to get rid of polyps or take a sample of any suspicious areas. A standard colonoscopy will be needed for further treatment if problems are found. On top of that, the process might not be as good as other ways of finding flat polyps or small tumors.

Another thing to think about is how much radiation will be present during the CT scan. Even though the radiation level isn't very high, it's still something to think about, especially for people who need to be screened more than once.

Preparing for a Virtual Colonoscopy

Getting ready for a virtual colonoscopy is a lot like getting ready for a real colonoscopy scan. People who need to clean out their colons must stick to a clear liquid diet and take laxatives as directed. To get exact results, it's very important to carefully follow these steps. The preparation method may be painful for some people, but it is important for the images to work well. You must consider 123 Body Scan for their best results and high-quality equipment. No doubt the staff is highly cooperative as well.