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Virtual Colonoscopy

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Posted 10/5/2007 2:03 PM (GMT -8)
Virtual colonography uses a CT scanner to take a series of X-rays of the colon and a computer to create a three-dimensional view.
A tube is inserted in the rectum to inflate the colon so it can be more easily viewed. A radiologist then checks the images for suspicious polyps. The patient isn't sedated.

http://www.chicagotribune.com/features/lifestyle/health/chi-colon_thursoct04,1,3022055.story

I don't know if they can use this on CD patients yet, but if this is the direction things are headed, I am liking it.

Thoughts?
Comments?
Posted 10/5/2007 3:12 PM (GMT -8)
I had this done a couple of months ago.

I started with a normal colonoscopy, but the doctor couldn't get around the bend in my splenic flexure (I have a very tight corner there, and the scope was bowing and causing me lots of pain, even though the doctor was experienced and I was sedated and given pain meds).  So they stopped the colonoscopy and sent me to the imaging center for the virtual colonography.

Since I was still halfway sedated from the regular colonoscopy, I barely remember it.  My first memory is going into the CT scanning room and wondering how I got there.  And then I remember when they pumped me with gas to inflate the colon, that it was quite painful - like major gas pains.  But it only lasted a few seconds.

Posted 10/5/2007 3:29 PM (GMT -8)
Thanks for your post, it is really encouraging for me. :-)

My doctor and I have been wondering how to evaluate the stricture near my rectum.
He had suggested a lower g.i./barium enema.(of course I am not thrilled with that idea)
Or maybe using a pediatric scope.

I am going to ask about this new test at my next visit.
Posted 10/5/2007 5:21 PM (GMT -8)
I read about this myself, and was very interested in it. I cannot have the regular type of colonoscopy anymore as the left side of my colon is attached to my body cavity and the doc is afraid he might perforate me. Unfortunately, you still have to prep. But that has to be better than getting that hose shoved up your ***.
Posted 10/6/2007 7:49 AM (GMT -8)
Only thing is they probably cannot do biopsy. Pretty good for a looksie but not good for tissue samples I would think. I don't know anything about it but my husband is suppose to go in for a colonoscopy next month and we were talking about this. His mother had colon cancer and I figured that they would be checking for cancer cell with him. What do you think? He's 52 and this will be his first one.
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