Understanding Virtual Colonoscopy: A Non-Invasive Approach to Colon Screening

One of the most common types of cancer in the world is colorectal cancer. Finding it early is very important for a good treatment. Traditional colonoscopies are alarming for a lot of people because they are invasive and need to be medicated. Due to improvements in medical imaging, the virtual colonoscopy procedure has been created as an option that doesn't involve surgery and gives accurate results with minimal discomfort. This new screening method is becoming more popular among people who want an easier and more accurate way to find problems in the colon.

What is a Virtual Colonoscopy Procedure?

During a virtual colonoscopy procedure, also called CT colonography, the colon is scanned to look for polyps, tumors, and other problems. A long, bendable tube with a camera is put into the colon in a regular colonoscopy. A CT scan is used in a virtual colonoscopy to make detailed pictures of the colon. The process includes filling the stomach with air or carbon dioxide to make it easier to see, and then a number of X-rays are taken. A computer then uses these pictures to make a three-dimensional picture of the gut, which helps doctors find any problems.

How is a Virtual Colonoscopy Different from a Traditional Colonoscopy?

When compared to a regular colonoscopy, the virtual colonoscopy procedure is much less invasive. In a regular colonoscopy, the patient is sedated, which means they need time to recover and usually someone to help them after the process. With virtual colonoscopy, patients don't need to be sedated, and they can go back to their normal lives almost right away. Also, there is a much smaller chance of problems like bleeding or intestinal injury because no instruments are put deep into the colon.

However, there is no way to remove polyps during the test with virtual colonoscopy. If polyps or other strange growths are found, a regular colonoscopy might still be needed to take samples or remove the abnormal tissue. Even though this is a negative aspect, virtual colonoscopy is still a great choice for many people. Especially those who are not able to get a regular colonoscopy for medical reasons or personal reasons.

Who Should Consider a Virtual Colonoscopy?

Colorectal cancer screening is recommended for people who want a non-invasive method. A virtual colonoscopy procedure can be used. It is especially helpful for people who are more likely to have problems after being sedated or who have health problems that make regular colonoscopies difficult. People over 45, those with a history of colon cancer in their family, and people who are having stomach problems should think about getting tested.

If a patient has had a standard colonoscopy, but not the whole colon could be examined because of blockages or other problems, the doctor may also suggest a virtual colonoscopy. In this case, a video colonoscopy can show the stomach more clearly and in more depth.

The Procedure: What to Expect

A virtual colonoscopy procedure requires patients to prepare the colon in a way that is similar to how a traditional colonoscopy is done. For one day, you have to only drink liquids and take an enema as recommended to clean out your stomach. A clean gut makes sure that the images are clear and improves the test's precision.

A small tube is put into the rectum to fill the colon with air or carbon dioxide. The patient sits on a CT scan table during the operation. The boost is needed to make images better. A set of X-rays is taken from different points after the stomach has been sufficiently stretched. The whole process usually takes ten to fifteen minutes, and the patient doesn't feel any major pain. There is no need for sedation like in regular colonoscopies, and the patient can go back to their normal routines right away.

How Does Virtual Colonoscopy Compare to Other Imaging Tests?

Medical imaging is very important for identifying many diseases, and there are various types of tests that can be used for different health issues. An angiogram scan, for instance, looks for blocks or other problems in blood vessels. This helps doctors figure out any health concerns with people who have heart disease or tumors. Similarly, a virtual colonoscopy procedure is all about taking pictures of the stomach to look for signs of cancer or polyps. Compared to a standard colonoscopy and its type, a virtual colonoscopy is a more current option that puts the safety of the patient first while still getting accurate results. 

Conclusion

123 Body Scan can provide affordable scans for people who are looking for medical centers for accurate scanning. The staff at the respective center provides the best treatment and services to patients for angiogram scans and colonoscopy scans.