A method under study to examine the colon by taking a series of x-rays (called a CT scan) and using a high-powered computer to reconstruct 2-D and 3-D pictures of the interior surfaces of the colon from these x-rays. The pictures can be saved, manipulated to better viewing angles, and reviewed after the procedure, even years later. Also called computed tomography colography.
Advances in computer processing speed and imaging software have allowed for the development of "virtual colonoscopy" (CT colonography). This test still requires an intestinal cleansing but is performed rapidly, without sedation, and without the invasiveness of flexible video colonoscopy. Other intra-abdominal abnormalities may be diagnosed with this screening device. CT colonography is an exciting technique for screening for colon cancer. Images can be viewed shortly after acquisition in a multiplanar reformatted (MPR) display or after processing with the "fly through" view.
Virtual colonoscopy: a way of imaging the colon using air or water introduced into the rectum. Images are taken using a CT scanner. Preparation is still required. The doctor then looks at these images which are reconstructed to show the inside of the colon. This procedure is still in development. Early studies are promising; however the accuracy is not as good as with colonoscopy. If an abnormality is seen, colonoscopy is required to biopsy the abnormal area and attempt to remove any polyps. The main use in the future may be for screening the average risk population for bowel cancer.
an asset, but not as beneficial as a full colonoscopy
a noninvasive procedure using a CT scan to
a procedure that uses a series of x-rays to make a series of pictures of the colon
a technologically advanced and highly accurate screening method used for detecting colon cancer in a much less invasive way than a traditional colonoscopy
a very effective radiographic study of the colon
Virtual Colonoscopy is a recently developed technique that uses a CT scanner and computer virtual reality software to look inside the body without having to insert a long tube (Conventional Colonoscopy) into the colon or without having to fill the colon with liquid barium (Barium Enema)..
Virtual colonoscopy (VC) is a Medical imaging procedure which uses x-rays and computers to produce two- and three-dimensional images of the colon (large intestine) from the lowest part, the rectum, all the way to the lower end of the small intestine and display them on a screen. The procedure is used to diagnose colon and bowel disease, including polyps, diverticulosis and cancer. VC can be performed with computed tomography (CT), sometimes called a CAT scan, or with magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).