CT Colonography

You have been referred by your physician for a CT colonography exam (also called virtual colonoscopy). This study looks for significant growths, such as polyps, within your rectum and colon. Polyps are growths on the lining of the colon that sometimes grow into cancers. The primary differences between CT colonography and traditional optical colonoscopy are that CT colonography uses a high technology X-ray scanner and advanced computer programs to create detailed images of the tissues inside the colon. It does not require sedation, injections or the insertion of a camera into the colon, and the procedure takes less time than an optical colonoscopy. In addition, you can drive yourself home or return to work immediately following your exam, which is not the case with the traditional optical colonoscopy.

At the S. Mark Taper Foundation Imaging Center, our team of CT colonography experts is led by Richard Sukov, MD, FACR, Chief of Gastrointestinal Radiology.

Before Arriving for Your Exam

The most important part of any colonography happens before you come to the S. Mark Taper Foundation Imaging Center. To get a good look at the lining of the colon, it is necessary to clean out any traces of food or other material.

This cleansing requires a restricted diet the day before your exam, and the taking of medication which will cause the colon to empty. This preparation is required regardless of whether you undergo a CT colonography or an optical colonoscopy.

If you have diabetes: please contact us before you begin the prep-kit: (310) 423-8000.

If you have any questions about your procedure, please contact Dr. Richard Sukov or Dr. Ashley Wachsman at (310) 423-8000, ext 3.

Most insurance plans, including medicare, do not cover CT colonography for screening purposes.

Day Prior to your Procedure:

Day of Procedure - Do not eat or drink anything

• At least 2 hours before the examination, unwrap the foil wrapper from the bisacodyl suppository and discard the foil.
• While lying on your side with thigh raised, insert the suppository into the rectum and gently push in as far as possible.
• Retain the suppository for at least 15 minutes, if possible before evacuating, even if the urge is strong. Bowel evacuation usually occurs within 15-60 minutes. Patients requiring assistance should have a bed pan, commode or help readily available.

After Arriving

A radiology nurse or technologist will ask you a few questions regarding your medical history. You will be asked questions such as: Why are you having the exam? Have you had prior colon surgery?

This procedure should not be performed if you are or might be pregnant.

While positioning you on the exam table, a technologist will explain your procedure and answer any questions you may have.

You will be asked to lie on your side and a small flexible tube will be inserted into your rectum. We use a special system to pump carbon dioxide into your colon through this tube. This gas will make the colon expand and will reduce the natural folds and wrinkles on the walls of your colon enabling a more accurate study. We use carbon dioxide instead of air because it absorbs into the bloodstream faster and reduces the bloated feeling many experience when air is used.

The table you are on will slide into the scanner. The scanner is open at the back and the front, allowing you to see out. The technologist will always be able to see and hear you during your exam.

You will be asked to hold very still and at times to hold your breath for about 15 seconds.

Two sets of images will be taken. The first while you are positioned on your back and the second on your stomach.

After the scan is complete, you will want to go to the bathroom to expel the remaining gas.

While the procedure takes about 15 minutes, you should expect to be at the center for approximately one hour.

After Your Exam

There are no restrictions placed on you after this procedure. You may drive yourself home and resume your normal schedule.

Your study will be read by an imaging physician who has been specially trained in the interpretation of CT colonography scans. The results will be sent to your physician, usually within 48 hours.

Your physician will discuss these results with you and explain what they mean in relation to your health.

To request copies of your pictures on a PC-compatible CD, or of your report, please call (310) 423-8000, ext. 2. 

If you are not currently scheduled for CT colonography, and have questions, you may contact an imaging specialist at (310) 423-8000, ext. 3.

Directions and Parking Information

For more information or to schedule an appointment, please call (310) 423-8000.