Protect Your Health with CT Colonography: A Cutting-Edge Screening Option

CT scans, detecting cancers has become far more easy than it was in the past. A cancer can be caught in its earlier stages due to the advent of CT scans for cancer detection. T

Protect Your Health with CT Colonography: A Cutting-Edge Screening Option

The other day, I read a tweet on X, formerly Twitter, that either it's a good day or tummy aches. There is no in-between. I laughed at this when I read this. However, now I think that it can be pretty serious if it happens very often. This indicates that your colon health is not in good condition, or it is an indication of an infection.

Nevertheless, whatever the case is, you must take it seriously, and if there is a need, then go for a CT colonoscopy. It is one of the imaging procedures that offers many benefits. In this post, we will cast a light on CT colonography and its importance for colon health. 

What is CT Colonography?

Another name for CT colonography is virtual colonoscopy, which is an imaging procedure that involves taking images of the colon and rectum to detect any abnormality. It is specifically useful for the screening of colon cancer in people from age 45 to 60. In addition to this, it is also popular for detecting polyps, which refers to abnormal growth of cells or tissues that develop cancer in the body. Unlike the traditional colonoscopy, this is not extremely painful but a bit sore. 

Are there any Benefits of CT Colonography?

Yes, it has many benefits. The imaging process is non-invasive screening. However, it offers insight into colon health and allows us to identify any abnormalities within the colon or rectum. Some Other benefits of it include the following: 

  • It allows for the early detection of colon cancer, even if there are a few symptoms. This helps improve the condition through effective treatment that may increase the chances of survival. 

  • This process does not demand any sedation because it is less invasive than traditional colonoscopy. 

  • In this screening, there is a lower risk of perfusion than the traditional colonoscopy.

  • The procedure is not lengthy; rather, it takes 15 to 20 minutes.

  • The scan detects problems within and outside the colon, such as osteoporosis or malignancies. 

  • It is often employed to know the reasons behind specific symptoms. 

 

What is the Procedure of CT Colonography?

The process is simple and less invasive, but you need to prepare yourself for a virtual colonoscopy procedure. The procedure includes the following steps: 

  • You will have to eat a low-fiber diet and take laxatives to clean your bowel. You might be advised to take a low-fiber diet three days before the scan and include fluids in the diet. 

  • For the scan, a thin tube gets inserted into the rectum to help inflate the colon with air.

  • You will lie straight on the table that goes inside the scanner. The scanner revolves around your abdomen to capture images from different angles. 

  • Once you get the results, a radiologist examines the images to detect the presence of any abnormality. 

  • The whole process takes 15 to 20 mins, but you will have to go into the room one hour before the scan for preparation. 

CT Colonography Vs. Traditional Colonography: What are Differences?

CT colonography is very different from traditional colonography. The differences include the following:

  • Traditional colonoscopy is an invasive process, which includes the insertion of a camera. It is extremely painful. However, with a virtual one, the CT scanner takes the images of the rectum. 

  • In the traditional one, there is a need for sedation due to extreme pain.

  • After the traditional colonoscopy, you have to stay in the hospital for recovery, but with a CT scan, you may go home right after the scan.

  • Traditional one involves the risk of bleeding or infection. On the other hand, a CT scan carries the risk of radiation-induced cancer. 

  • Lastly, after the CT scan, you have to go through additional screening to confirm the presence of abnormality.

Should I go for a CT Colonography?

This depends upon the individual risk factors. Even if you do not have high-risk factors, then you may go for it with average risk factors. If you are afraid of sedation or the insertion of the camera, this is a good option for you. However, before going for the screening, it is better to consult with your doctor. A healthcare provider offers better guidance depending on your condition. 


Conclusion 

Every individual must take care of their health. Even if there is the slightest risk of any abnormality, it is much better to take precautionary measures and go for a CT colonoscopy.  The process is less invasive and painless, so it is more bearable instead of a traditional colonoscopy. However, your doctor may offer better guidance. In that regard, ViaScan of Las Colinas offers both kinds of colonoscopy, including conventional and virtual colonoscopy. With them, you will not have to worry about the quality of the scan, as they are known for high-quality imaging tests.

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