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CT Colonography (CTC)
CT Colonography (CTC), virtual colonoscopy, provides a safe relatively non-invasive alternative for the detection of colonic polyps and tumors. It has been of particular benefit for people who have failed conventional colonoscopy or for whom the procedure is too risky. It is an option for the millions of patients over age 50 who should undergo colon cancer screening. CTC consists of advanced rapid CT scanning after bowel preparation and introduction of monitored carbon dioxide through a small rectal tube to gently distend the colon.
This may cause mild cramping but in our experience is very well tolerated for the few seconds required for scanning. Following the scan, you can immediately return to your routine activities. No hospitalization or sedation is necessary. A limited look at all the other organs in the abdomen and pelvis is another benefit over conventional colonoscopy by the nature of the CT exam. For the subset of patients in whom suspicious polyps are found, CTC can guide the gastroenterologist for subsequent colon biopsy. Studies have suggested the sensitivity for identifying significant polyps (i.e., those larger than 1 cm) is comparable to conventional colonoscopy. As of March 2008, the American Cancer Society includes CTC among its recommendations for the early detection of colon cancer for patients age 50 or older.
Please check with your insurance carrier to confirm that they have adopted the American Cancer Society's recommendations and provide coverage for CTC.
For more on virtual colonoscopy, please visit the Radiology Information Web site.