We make it convenient to book an appointment. Please schedule a visit here.
Skip to main content

What is a virtual colonoscopy

What is a virtual colonoscopy?

A virtual colonoscopy is different from a regular colonoscopy. The virtual colonoscopy is performed in the radiology department of a hospital or medical center. No sedatives are needed and no scope is used. You will lie on your left side on a narrow table that is connected to a CT scan machine.

A regular colonoscopy may also need to be done (on a different day) after a virtual colonoscopy if:

Your doctor will most likely recommend a conventional colonoscopy instead of a virtual colonoscopy for the majority of patients. The reason is that virtual colonoscopy does not allow the doctor to remove tissue samples or polyps. This is important because some polyps can be precancerous and must be removed to eliminate the possibility of turning into cancer. In addition to removing polyps, your doctor may want to take additional biopsies to rule out certain conditions in conjunction with symptoms you experience. This can only be done with a conventional colonoscopy.

How to prepare for either test

Everyone undergoing any type of colonoscopy, virtual or traditional, must completely empty their bowels before the exam. Both tests require a bowel prep and clear liquid diet, specified by your doctor.

Risks for a virtual colonoscopy

Considerations

Differences between virtual and conventional colonoscopy include:

You Might Also Enjoy...

Perianal Abscess vs. Hemorrhoid: What’s the Difference?

Perianal Abscess vs. Hemorrhoid: What’s the Difference?

Perianal abscesses can be a source of anal pain, and they’re sometimes confused with hemorrhoids. But the two problems of the anal and rectal area have little in common, except for the discomfort they create. Read on to learn the differences.

5 Recovery Tips After Pilonidal Cleft Lift Surgery

A chronic skin infection located in the crease of the buttocks near the tailbone, pilonidal disease can cause painful abscesses and infections. Surgery is the typical method of combating the disease. Find out how to ensure you recover from surgery successf
What You Need to Know About Anal Tags

What You Need to Know About Anal Tags

l skin tags are common, noncancerous growths that form on the skin around the anus. While anal tags are usually pain-free, they can cause local irritation and itching. They can also resemble some more serious health conditions.
When Should I Seek Treatment for Hemorrhoids?

When Should I Seek Treatment for Hemorrhoids?

Hemorrhoids affect more than 30% third of Americans and account for 4 million doctor’s office and emergency room visits annually. These swollen veins, found in the anus and lower rectum, create symptoms ranging from mild to major.