The benefits
Colonoscopies are a vital tool for finding and removing intestinal polyps. While most polyps are benign, some can grow and turn into cancer. Finding them early is key.
For this reason, most physicians recommend that everyone 50 and older should have a colonoscopy every seven to 10 years to screen for polyps. If you are at increased risk, it’s recommended you be screened every five years. Risk factors include a history of polyps, a family history of colon cancer, and/or the presence of blood in your stool.
Compared to a traditional colonoscopy, virtual colonoscopies take less time and don’t require a doctor to insert a scope into the entire length of your colon. Virtual colonoscopies also don’t require anesthesia, so you can quickly return to normal activities after your test.
CT, or virtual, colonography uses X-rays to take cross-sectional images of your abdominal cavity and colon. These images are assembled by a computer into a 3D rendering allowing the radiologist to “fly-through,” or virtually examine your colon and large intestine for polyps and other lesions. We use the latest in high-speed, digital CT equipment — resulting in shorter scan times and proper radiation doses.
