Regular checkups and screenings are important for keeping your gastrointestinal health in good shape and finding problems early. Screening for intestinal abnormalities including polyps and colorectal cancer may now be done using a less invasive virtual colonoscopy. This process is different from a regular colonoscopy because it uses imaging technology to see inside the stomach. It is less invasive, has fewer risks, and leads to faster healing. This article will describe what a virtual colonoscopy is, how it works, and what are its pros and cons. You will also learn who might gain the most from this new method.
What Is a Virtual Colonoscopy?
A virtual colonoscopy is a colonoscopy scan that makes detailed pictures of the colon and rectum with a CT (computed tomography) machine. This technique is also called a CT colonography. It can be used instead of a standard colonoscopy because it doesn’t involve putting a tube into the colon. Instead, the CT machine takes several X-rays of the abdomen. These are then put back together to make a 3D picture of the stomach that a doctor can examine. It is very good at finding big polyps, tumors, and other problems that might be in the gut using this method.
How Does a Virtual Colonoscopy Work?
Patients usually have to go through a process of getting ready for their virtual colonoscopy that is similar to getting ready for a regular colonoscopy. As part of this process, the gut is cleaned out so that imaging is clear. A small tube is put into the rectum to fill the colon with air or carbon dioxide during the scan. This lets the CT machine take good pictures. The person lies on the CT machine, which takes several X-rays to make a 3D picture of the colon after the colon is expanded. The whole scan usually only takes ten to fifteen minutes, and the patient can quickly go back to their normal routine.
Who Should Consider a Virtual Colonoscopy?
A virtual colonoscopy is a good way to check for colorectal cancer in people who have a normal risk, especially those aged 50 and above. It is also suggested for people who might not be able to have a regular colonoscopy scan for medical reasons. Such as those having trouble with drugs or having physical issues that make the regular process hard. Virtual colonoscopy is also a good and safer option for people who have had colon surgery before or who have certain stomach problems.
However, it’s important to talk to a doctor first before getting a virtual colonoscopy. This method works well for finding big polyps and other serious problems, yet it might not be as thorough for finding smaller problems as a regular colonoscopy. If the virtual colonoscopy finds a polyp that seems odd, it may still be necessary to do a standard colonoscopy to remove it so that it can be studied further.
Limitations of Virtual Colonoscopy
Virtual colonoscopy has some drawbacks in spite of its benefits. If polyps or other problems are found during the scan, they will need to be removed during a standard colonoscopy, which is one of the main problems. For some people, this extra process can be inconvenient. Also, virtual colonoscopy might not be as good at finding very small polyps or flat tumors, which might not show up on the images.
Another thing to think about is that the CT scan used in virtual colonoscopy gives off a small amount of radiation. Although the radiation exposure is usually low, it could be a problem for people who need to be screened more than once or who have other health problems.
Final Words
Virtual colonoscopy is a good option for people who want a non-invasive and effective way to check on their gut health. It can be particularly helpful for individuals experiencing symptoms like rib pain, as it provides detailed images of the colon and surrounding areas, helping to identify potential issues. Virtual colonoscopy is an effective method for regular screening, especially for people at average risk of colorectal cancer, due to its high-quality images, quick healing time, and low risk of complications. However, it’s important to consider the pros and cons and talk to a doctor to determine whether a virtual colonoscopy or a traditional colonoscopy is the best choice for you. ViaScan of Las Colinas is an excellent place to get your colonoscopy scans done. They have state-of-the-art equipment and a professional staff to ensure you’re well taken care of throughout the procedure.
