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CT colonography uses a CT scanner to produce detailed pictures of the colon and rectum. We take a look at how the test can be used to help detect cancers and other bowel conditions.
CT (computerised tomography) is a type of scan that uses X-rays and a computer to take detailed pictures of the inside of your body. As a result, this procedure is less invasive than a standard colonoscopy, where an endoscope – a flexible tube with a camera attached – is inserted into your rectum.
Call or book online today and you could have your initial consultation with a private gastroenterologist near you in as little as 48 hours.
A CT colonography may be suggested if a standard colonoscopy is not suitable for you, or if you’d already had a standard colonoscopy, but your consultant was unable to examine your large bowel fully.
As opposed to a colonoscopy, a CT colonography offers the following benefits:
CT colonography | Colonoscopy |
---|---|
15-30 minutes | 45 minutes-1 hour |
5-7-centimetre-long probe | 160-180-centimetre-long probe |
No sedation | Usually requires sedation |
Low dose of radiation | No radiation |
Entire colon and abdomen screened | Entire colon screened, although can be obscured if part of your intestine is narrowed or blocked |
Our fixed-price packages include the cost of your surgery and all appropriate aftercare appointments. However, any pre-surgery diagnostic tests and your consultant's outpatient appointment consultation fee are charged separately.
Our flexible payment options help you spread the cost of your payment across a time period that suits you.
Your consultant will ask you about your symptoms, general health, medical and family history, and any medications you take regularly before performing a physical examination.
Your consultant may ask to see the results of any previous tests or scans you've had, or they may arrange them on the day. These may include:
Your first appointment is important as it's where you'll meet your consultant, the doctor responsible for your care. Your consultant will take time to get to know you, discuss your expectations for treatment and encourage you to ask any questions you may have.
At Circle Health Group, we want you to be as well-informed and comfortable as possible during your time with us, so please discuss any questions or concerns with your consultant during your appointment.
You should not have a CT colonography if you are pregnant, so if you think you're pregnant, tell your consultant.
Tell your consultant about any medications you are taking, including over-the-counter medicines and supplements before your procedure, and any medical conditions, such as diabetes, or allergies you have.
Your consultant may tell you to stop taking some medications such as iron tablets, blood thinners or any medication that can cause constipation for around a week before your CT colonography.
Before your CT colonography, you'll need to follow specific instructions to clear your bowels and ensure they are empty for the procedure. This is to allow the radiographer (the person conducting the procedure) to see your colon and rectum clearly.
You'll be given instructions on how to prepare your bowels by your healthcare team. Please call the hospital if you are not sure about anything regarding bowel prep. If your bowels are not empty before the procedure, your colonography will likely be postponed.
Bowel prep may involve:
During bowel prep, the medications you are given will make you open your bowels frequently. This can be very sudden, so make sure you are near a toilet while undergoing bowel prep. You may also experience some abdominal discomfort and cramping during your bowel prep.
Before your virtual colonoscopy, you'll need to sign a consent form to say that you agree to have the procedure and are aware of what it entails and the possible risks and complications.
You'll be asked to change into a hospital gown before your CT colonography and will have a small plastic tube called a cannula inserted into your hand before the procedure. You may be given medication to relax your bowels and reduce abdominal cramping during your CT colonography.
The CT scan is painless and normally lasts around 30 minutes. It's important to keep as still as possible during your scan as this will allow your radiographer to get the clearest images of your bowel.
During your CT colonography:
Following your scan, you'll be scheduled in for a follow-up appointment one to two weeks after your CT colonography to discuss your results and any necessary treatment options.
You may feel discomfort and bloating for a while after your virtual colonoscopy due to the gas that was pumped into your bowel. This should ease within a few hours.
Blurred vision can occur as a side effect of the medication used to relax your bowels. This normally resolves after about 30 minutes. Please do not drive until your vision has returned to normal.
You can return to work and normal activities and eat and drink normally as soon as you feel able after your CT colonography.
A CT colonography is a very safe procedure, but as with any type of medical procedure, there is a small risk that complications may occur.
Your consultant will explain all the possible risks and complications of a colonography before your procedure and answer any questions you may have. It’s important that you are fully aware of any possible risks and complications before your procedure to make an informed decision.
Possible complications of CT colonography include:
If you would like to see a consultant or learn more about a CT colonography, book your appointment online or call a member of our team today.