What is Virtual Colonoscopy?

Virtual colonoscopy is a recently developed, minimally invasive technique for detecting polyps and cancer in a patient's colon. In many cases, it serves as an effective alternative to traditional colonoscopy. Virtual colonoscopy uses a CT scanner and virtual reality computer software to examine the colon thereby eliminating the need of inserting a long tube (colonoscope) or barium solution into the colon. Virtual colonoscopy takes only a few minutes to complete, requires no sedation, and does not risk perforation of the colon wall. CO2 (carbon dioxide) is placed into the colon during the test to help visualize any abnormalities. Because CO2 is rapidly absorbed, the discomfort level using this method is extremely minimal, and patients can return to normal activities directly after the test.

For more information, including preparation for the test, please review the ADDITIONAL INFORMATION on Virtual Colonoscopy available on this website.

What is colorectal cancer?

Colorectal cancer is a disease in which cells in the colon or rectum become abnormal and divide without control or order, forming a mass called a tumor. Most tumors begin as small non-cancerous (benign) clumps of cells called polyps that, over time, may become cancerous. Colorectal cancer, which includes cancer of both the colon and the rectum, is the 4th most common type of cancer and the second leading cause of cancer death in the United States. Each year approximately 150,000 Americans are diagnosed with colorectal cancer and approximately 50,000 will die.

Screening for colorectal cancer

"Screening" means to check for health problems before they cause symptoms. Colorectal cancer screening is used to detect cancer, polyps that may eventually become cancer, or other abnormal conditions. The recommendations for colorectal screening parallel the risk factors and include the following:

• Patients without RISK FACTORS for colon cancer - Colon cancer screening should begin at age 50. A less intense screening with "stool cards" to check for the presence of unseen blood, and sigmoidoscopy is recommended. More complete colon evaluations at various intervals may also be recommended.
• Patients with RISK FACTORS for colon cancer - Colon cancer screening of the entire colon should begin earlier. The exact age [indicated for screening] in these situations varies. Evaluation of the entire colon is a general recommendation in these cases.

Preparation for Virtual Colonoscopy.

Please refer to ADDITIONAL INFORMATION section of this website.

To schedule a Virtual Colonoscopy

• Phone (248)267-5000 and press #8.
• To schedule an appointment or email a question regarding virtual colonoscopy please click here.