Virtual Colonoscopy is now available at CPER.  Colorectal cancer is the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the United States.  The American Cancer Society recommends a colorectal screening every 3 to 5 years for people over 50 years old. Screening involves the identification of polyps, which are growths in the bowel wall.  Approximately 8-12% of untreated polyps become cancerous tumors. Early detection of clinically significant polyps and cancer with virtual colonoscopy allows for treatment at a stage when the disease can be prevented or even cured.

How is virtual colonoscopy performed?

This gentle, non-invasive procedure is performed on our Light Speed 16-slice CT scanner, which allows radiologists to evaluate the lining of the colon to detect polyps and cancers.  Thin section images are taken and processed into a variety of 2 and 3-D reconstructions.   They can be viewed at any angle and include the entire colon, including "blind spots" caused by colonic folds. Reported accuracy is the same as that of traditional colonoscopy for polyps greater than 5-6 mm.

A small flexible enema tube is placed in the rectum.  After the tube is in place, the colon is inflated with air using a hand-held squeeze bulb.  The entire procedure can be completed within 20 minutes and requires no sedation.

The most common screening procedures in the past are traditional colonoscopy and barium enema.  The colonoscope in traditional colonoscopy is not able to reach all portions of the colon in 5-15% of patients. The reported polyp detection rates of virtual colonoscopy surpass those of double-contrast barium enema.  Unlike a standard colonoscopy, no sedative or anesthesia is needed, allowing the patient to drive home or return to work after the procedure.

The radiologist will evaluate the images to detect colon cancers after the procedure.  Physicians will receive a report within 24 hours. 

PREPARATION:

Prior to the exam, the patient will pick up the prep kit (Fleet Kit #2) containing instructions for a 48-hour diet and bowel cleansing preparation.

COST:

At this time most insurance plans do not cover this screening exam.  The cost for a virtual colonoscopy exam is $800.00.  Payment is required at the time service.  CPER accepts cash, check, AMEX, VISA, MC.  A referral form from your physician is needed before the exam is performed.

SCHEDULING:

Please call 212-326-5552 to schedule an appointment.  This procedure can be scheduled between 9:00am and 3:30pm.