Why is Virtual Colonoscopy/CT Colonography such a breakthrough?
CTC is a non-invasive test. It does not require the insertion of an endoscope throughout the colon. It is quick–completed in about 10-15 minutes. Further, it does not require sedation or anesthesia. Therefore the patient is able to immediately resume all activities, including driving and work. Recent studies of CTC show that it is as sensitive for detecting polyps and cancers as traditional colonoscopy. In fact, in many ways, the images provided by CTC are even better than those seen by traditional colonoscopy. This is because CTC can often see polyps behind haustral folds of the bowel easier and better than traditional colonoscopy. Furthermore, unlike traditional colonoscopy, which only sees the inside of the colon, a CTC also provides images of the rest of the abdomen. While CTC images are not a substitute for a complete abdominal CT scan, if one is indicated, these CTC images often detect early cancers and other abnormalities in abdominal organs. Many people have been cured of asym
