How is the virtual colonoscopy procedure performed?
You will be asked to use the restroom right before the exam to insure your bowel is as empty as possible. You will be then asked to change into a hospital gown. You will be instructed to lie on your side on the CT scanner table. A trained technician will place a short, flexible, lubricated tube into your rectum. Through this tube a CT technologist or radiologist will distend and fill your colon with room air so that it is distended enough to get an accurate reading. Every patient will receive different amounts of air depending on how large the colon is. You may feel some discomfort from the distention. Most patients rate the level of discomfort as “tolerable” and most of the discomfort is immediately relieved as soon as the procedure is completed. The CT scanner will then take pictures of your abdomen. During the scan you will periodically need to hold your breath for several seconds. Pictures will be taken while you are lying on your back and on your stomach.
