Who should not have a CT Colonography?

Individuals who exhibit any of the warning signs described below are not candidates for CT colonography. If you are experiencing any of the following warning signs you should immediately notify your physician. Warning signs for colon cancer are:
• Diarrhea or other changes in bowel habits lasting 10 days or more
• Blood in the stool
• Unexplained anemia
• Abdominal pain and tenderness in the lower abdomen
• Intestinal obstruction
• Weight loss

What can the CT Colonography Identify?

CT Colonography is designed to identify conditions within the colon such as, but not limited to, colon masses and prominent strictures, large polyps, and any substantial diverticulosis or diverticulitis. Very subtle lesions may be beyond the sensitivity of CT Colonography.

Benefits of CT Colonography

CT Colonography is a less invasive approach to screening the colon for abnormal conditions. It is a screening method to be used as a complementary service with your family doctor or gastroenterology specialist. In the event an abnormal condition was to be detected, consultation with your family doctor and/ or gastroenterologist is highly recommended. Preparation is similar to conventional colonoscopy in that a laxative must be taken to assure that the bowel is completely empty and clean. The placement of a small rubber tube will be inserted in your rectum to enable you to self- inflate your colon (air contrast, no barium contrast) for better viewing. No anesthesia is required and the screen is completed in approximately 30 minutes. CT colonography has the capability of detecting cancerous/ pre-cancerous lesions in areas of the colon that conventional colonoscopies may not, especially around the corners of the colon.
Other benefits include:
• No sedation
• Less time to perform than conventional colonoscopy
• Involves little risk
• Both sides of bowel folds can be examined

Risks Associated with CT Colonography

• Mild rectal irritation may result from the insertion of the rectal tube
• CT colonography has difficulty detecting flat lesions and subtle lesions within the colon that may be cancerous or pre-cancerous. Conventional colonoscopies are better at determining such lesions
• Minimal radiation exposure

Alternatives to CT Colonography

• Conventional colonoscopy
• Air Contrast Barium Enema

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