What is the difference between a conventional, optical colonoscopy and the newer virtual colonoscopy?
A. In a conventional colonoscopy, the doctor inserts a colonoscope – a long, flexible, lighted tube – into the patient’s rectum and slowly guides it up through the colon. Pain medication and a mild sedative help the patient stay relaxed and comfortable during the 30- to 60-minute procedure. A tiny camera in the scope transmits an image of the lining of the colon, so the doctor can examine it on a video monitor. If an abnormality is detected, the doctor can remove it or take tissue samples using tiny instruments passed through the scope. Virtual colonoscopy (VC) uses x rays and computers to produce two- and three-dimensional images of the colon (large intestine) from the lowest part, the rectum, all the way to the lower end of the small intestine and display them on a screen. VC is more comfortable than conventional colonoscopy for many people because it does not use a colonoscope. As a result, no sedation is needed and you can return to your usual activities or go home after the proced
