Virtual colonoscopy, also known as colonography, is a test that aims to visualize your intestine from CT images. In this way, the resulting images are processed by computer programs that generate images of the intestine from various perspectives, allowing the doctor to have a more detailed view of the intestine.
The procedure lasts an average of 15 minutes and during the examination a small tube is inserted into the initial part of the intestine, through the anus, through which a gas responsible for the dilation of the intestine passes to make all its parts visible.
- Virtual colonoscopy may be helpful in identifying intestinal polyps less than 0.
- 5 mm.
- Such as diverticulum or cancer.
- And if changes are observed during the test.
- Small surgery may be needed on the same day to remove the polyps or part of it.
- Gut.
For a virtual colonoscopy, it’s important that your intestine is clean so you can see inside it. Therefore, the day before the test, it is recommended to:
This test can be performed by most patients, however, it cannot be performed by pregnant women due to radiation, despite the low frequency of radiation.
Virtual colonoscopy is performed in people who cannot receive anesthesia and do not support current colonoscopy because it involves the insertion of the tube into the anus, causing some discomfort. In addition, the other benefits of virtual colonoscopy are:
In addition, it can also diagnose changes in organs involving the intestine, such as the liver, pancreas, gallbladder, spleen, bladder, prostate, and even uterus, because the test is done with CT scans.