Colonoscopy, which is a test for colon cancer, is a bit scary for many people, isn't it? It's normal to feel a little nervous when they say they're going to put a camera in. But did you know that there is an alternative to this, a way to check your colon without putting a camera in? Today we're talking about the 'virtual' colonoscopy. This allows your doctor to see the inside of your colon and rectum clearly.
What is the difference between a regular colonoscopy and this virtual colonoscopy?
Okay, let's first understand exactly the difference between these two.
During a typical, full colonoscopy, you are anesthetized, meaning you are asleep, and the doctor inserts a thin, flexible tube through your anus. The tube has a camera and a light on the end. This allows you to see the inside of your colon very clearly. If you see any growths, called polyps , or changes in the tissue, the doctor can take a sample of the tissue through the tube and test it for cancer (biopsy).
However, in a virtual colonoscopy, a tube with a camera is not inserted. You are not anesthetized, which means you are fully conscious . Instead, the doctor uses a CT scanner and X-rays to create three-dimensional (3-D) images of your colon on a computer screen. This is also called CT colonography .
How should I prepare for this test?
The preparation for this is very similar to the regular test. We call this "prep".
You will need to be careful about what you eat and drink for a few days before the test. Your doctor may advise you to avoid certain foods. After that, you will be given a special medicine to completely cleanse your intestines.
In addition, you will be given a special liquid (contrast liquid) to drink before the test. This liquid coats the inner wall of the intestine, making it more visible on the scan images.
The most important thing is to tell your doctor about all the medications you are taking. This includes over-the-counter medications, vitamins, supplements, and even Ayurvedic or herbal remedies. Your doctor may tell you to stop taking some of these medications a few days before the test.
Also, if you have had any previous allergic reactions to the contrast fluid used in X-ray tests, be sure to inform your doctor about that. This test is not suitable for you if you are pregnant.
What happens during the test?
This is actually not as difficult as you might think. This test is performed by a trained technician. And it doesn't require a hospital stay.
You will be made to lie on a narrow bed. First, you will be turned on your side and a very small, thin tube will be inserted through your anus and a small amount of air will be filled into your colon. This is done to make the inside of your colon well inflated and smooth so that it can be clearly seen on the scan images without any wrinkles. At this point, your stomach will feel a little full, but you will not feel any pain .
After you're inflated, your bed will move slowly into a large machine shaped like a donut. This is the CT scanner. Even when the technician leaves the room, he can still see you through a glass, hear you, and talk to you.
During the test, you may be asked to change sides or hold your breath for a while. You may hear clicking or whistling sounds from the machine. The entire test takes about 10 to 15 minutes .
How do you feel after the test?
After the test, you may feel a little bloated until the air in your stomach passes. This is normal. You can eat normally and go about your normal activities that day. There are no restrictions.
Your doctor will let you know when and how you will receive the test results.
So why doesn't everyone use this virtual method? Let's look at the pros and cons.
Virtual colonoscopy has its advantages and disadvantages. Let's take a look at them.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| The risk is lower than a regular colonoscopy. | Because the doctor cannot see the intestines directly, very small changes may be missed. |
| It is more convenient for the elderly and those taking blood thinners. | Some insurance coverage does not apply to this. |
| There is no recovery time required. You can return to normal life immediately after the test. | Even at low levels, X-rays cause radiation exposure. |
| It is faster and relatively less expensive than regular testing. | Most importantly: If the test identifies a problem (e.g. polyps), it should be removed and examined (biopsy). However, a regular colonoscopy should be performed anyway. |
Take-Home Message
- Virtual Colonoscopy is a painless test that uses a CT scan to obtain three-dimensional (3D) images of the inside of the colon.
- In this, a tube with a camera is not inserted into the body like in a regular colonoscopy.
- A thorough bowel prep is required before the test. It is essential to inform your doctor about all medications, vitamins, and supplements you are taking.
- This method has both advantages and disadvantages. The biggest disadvantage is that if any problems are found, a regular colonoscopy will have to be done again to remove them or do a tissue test.
- You should decide which test is best for you after talking to your doctor, considering factors such as your medical condition and age.
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