Radiology
Colorectoral Cancer Screening
CT Colonoscopy
Colon cancer is the third most common form of cancer in the world. Screening tests can find precancerous polyps so that they can be removed before they turn into cancer, and catch colon cancer early, which increases a patient’s treatment options.
A virtual CT Colonoscopy (CTC) is a non-invasive alternative to a conventional colonoscopy that does not require sedation. A CT Colonoscopy can also detect other abdominal concerns such as bleeding, inflammatory bowel disease, and diverticulosis.
CT Colonoscopy (CTC) is one of several screening choices to detect colorectal cancer. The benefits include no sedation and a low dose of radiation.
Frequently Asked Questions
The risk of developing colorectal cancer increases with age, so recommended screenings begin at age 45. If you are at average risk, screening for colon cancer should take place every 5 years with a CT Colonoscopy. You are considered at an increased risk if you have:
- Personal and/or Family history of colon cancer
- Personal history of certain types of polyps
- Personal history of inflammatory bowel disease (ex: Ulcerative Colitis)
- Family history of hereditary colorectal cancer syndrome (ex: Lynch Syndrome)
- Previous radiation cancer treatment to the abdomen/pelvis
A Virtual CT Colonoscopy should be considered if you are NOT able to complete a conventional colonoscopy due to factors such as:
- Excessive colonic tortuosity (twisted colon)
- Narrowing/lockage of the colon
- Post-surgical adhesions
- Unable to tolerate sedation or have other medical conditions including:
- Bleeding disorders
- Recent colon surgery
- Recent heart attack
- Severe heart and/or lung disease
- Refusing the conventional colonoscopy that your doctor recommended
The exam will only last about 15 minutes. CT Colonography requires rectal insertion of a narrow, flexible tube. You’ll lie on a table that rides on a track through the doughnut-shaped scanner. You’ll be asked to relax and lie still so that the machine can capture clear images. You may be asked to hold your breath for up to 30 seconds. During the scan, you may hear low humming sounds from the CT machine as it rotates around you, producing images from different angles. These images are then studied on a computer screen by your radiologist.
Like with any conventional colonoscopy, you must follow a regimen before the exam to clear your colon and enable clear imaging of the tissues. You will receive detailed instructions once your exam is scheduled.
One of our subspecialized radiologists will analyze the 3D images of your colon and send a report to your physician within one week of the study. Your physician will contact you with the results.
CT Colonoscopies are performed under a CT scanner, which exposes you to a small amount of radiation. The procedure may miss polyps if they are smaller than 6-10mm, and if abnormalities are found, a conventional colonoscopy may still be needed.
Visit our locations page for more information. Imaging modalities and associated studies vary by location. Please contact us to schedule your visit at a convenient location near you.
Request an appointment online or contact us at 716-631-2500.
Windsong charges a nominal fee for the preparation kits you will need. The kits will include instructions and items you will need to prepare for your appointment. The procedure itself is subject to copay, deductible, or coinsurance depending on your insurance coverage. We recommended you contact your health insurance plan to learn more about your financial responsibility. Currently, Medicare does not cover screening virtual colonoscopies. To find out more about the fee for the preparation kits, please call (716) 631-2500.
