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CT Colonography - what is it?
This procedure is an examination of the large bowel ( colon). It demonstrates the anatomy of the bowel and also gives an indication of abnormalities.
The procedure is performed on the CT scanner after inflation of the bowel with air which is introduced through a soft catheter placed in the rectum.
The procedure can be performed as an alternative to colonoscopy or barium enema examination. It is important that the indications and alternatives are discussed with you by your doctor beforehand.
Preparation
It is important to have the bowel correctly prepared using laxatives and a suppository, commencing the day before the examination.
Procedure
Two series of images are taken, one with the patient lying face up and one face down. Each scan takes less than 30 seconds. The entire procedure including preparation time takes approximately 20 minutes.
The patient lies on the x-ray table and a small flexible lubricated tube is placed into the bowel opening. Air is then passed into the bowel through this opening. There may be a feeling of stretching or mild discomfort in the abdomen but patients are rarely bothered by this.
An intravenous injection may be given to relax the bowel and in some patients this will help to reduce discomfort and improve the ease of interpretation of the examination.
Patients must hold their breath for about 20 seconds while the films are being taken. Then the air will be drained away and the tube removed at which point the patient may go.
Processing the images takes considerable time as there are many images to view on a high powered computer station. Reporting will take 30-60 minutes, often the radiologist may consult with other specialist doctors.