Virtual Colonoscopy

A virtual colonoscopy is a minimally invasive computed tomography (CT) scan that produces two- and three-dimensional images of the large intestine (colon) and rectum. The procedure is used to diagnose colon and bowel disease, including polyps and masses, diverticulosis (pouches in the colon), and cancer.

Please read and follow the instructions in your kit carefully. The prep kit materials are designed to cleanse your bowel for your exam; if it is not completely clean, we may have to repeat the exam. Any remaining stool may also hide serious conditions.

PREP KIT MATERIALS

• Purg-odan (1 box, 2 pouches) – a laxative that induces bowel movements. The double dose improves the efficacy of fecal tagging (the second half of the preparation).
• Bisacodyl (10mg x 2) rectal suppositories – a stimulant laxative which increases the activity of the bowel.
• Buscopan (20mg – 10mg x 2) – slows the motility of the bowel, which reduces spasms during imaging. Spasms can mimic bowel disease during imaging.
• E-Z-CAT (225ml divided into two drinks) – oral barium, a CT contrast agent that adheres to residual stool after the laxatives.
• Oral Omnipaque 350 Solution (20ml) – a contrast agent, thinner than E-Z-CAT, which travels through the bowel quickly and adheres to residual stool already mixed with E-Z-CAT. Our computer software can then eliminate areas that are mixed with the contrast agent, differentiating between residual stool and a polyp.

TWO DAYS BEFORE THE EXAM

Around 6 p.m. After a normal evening meal, start a CLEAR FLUID DIET. This includes:

• Water, pulp-free juices, such as apple or white grape. (AVOID red- or purple-coloured liquids.)
• Sports drinks, such as Gatorade or Powerade.
• Decaffeinated beverages, such as soft drinks, coffee, and tea
• Popsicles and Jell-O (without fruit or cream).
• Chicken broth/bullion.
• AVOID all milk products.

Take any required medications with water. If you are diabetic, please call 403.777.3000 for further directions.

ONE DAY BEFORE THE EXAM

DAY OF EXAM

• About two hours before your test, insert one Bisacodyl rectal suppository and take the Buscopan 20mg by mouth.
• You may have sips of fluid to take the required medication.
• Try to empty your bowels one last time before the test.
• Please arrive 15 minutes before your appointment to allow enough time for adequate preparation.
• Bring photo identification and your provincial health card.
• Wear comfortable clothes.
• Please do not bring children who require supervision.

WHAT HAPPENS DURING MY EXAM?

• You may be asked to change into scrubs.
• You will be asked to lie on your back on the bed of the CT scanner, which will then be adjusted for correct placement.
• A small tube will be inserted into your rectum to inflate your colon with CO2 until you feel full. (CO2 is more comfortable and more readily absorbed by the body than room air.)
• Your technologist will leave the room to begin your exam, but you will be in direct communication throughout your procedure.
• During the exam, you will be asked to turn from your back to your stomach.
• You will be asked to hold your breath (for 10-15 seconds) to help obtain specific images.
• Once we have the correct number of good-quality images, your technologist will help you off the bed and guide you back to your change room. You are then free to leave.

POST-EXAM INSTRUCTIONS

• Resume your normal diet and medications.
• You will be able to drive after the exam.
• Although most of the CO2 will be absorbed, some of it will be expelled naturally over the next few hours.
• If you have any questions or concerns following your exam, please do not hesitate to contact our office at 403-777-3000.

WHEN WILL I GET MY RESULTS?

We do our best to have our radiologists interpret the information and forward the results to your doctor in a timely manner. Please consult with your doctor regarding your results and any follow up exams or questions.

HOW MUCH WILL IT COST?

In Calgary, CT exams are provided at our Mayfair Place location as private pay exams and are not covered by Alberta Health Care. A virtual colonoscopy is $930. We offer a 10% Seniors discount (65+) that can be applied to the total CT exam.

Your health spending account or group medical insurance plan may cover the cost of a private CT that is prescribed by a qualified health care practitioner. You will need to check with your plan administrator for coverage details.

Please note that if contrast is needed, it’s an additional cost of $125.

PLEASE NOTE:

Please bring the following to your appointment: a valid government-issued ID, your provincial health card, and your exam requisition (if you have received one).