What is a Virtual Colonoscopy

What is a Virtual Colonoscopy
Technology has grown by leaps and bounds over even just the past decade. Now, thousands of people turn to the Internet to find out medical information - of which some is unreliable.

Technology has grown by leaps and bounds over even just the past decade. Now, thousands of people turn to the Internet to find out medical information - of which some is unreliable. Not only has the Internet grown, but also computer software has evolved to such an extent that many doctors rely on it to successfully complete various medical procedures.

Through all of this, the virtual colonoscopy has evolved as well. A virtual colonoscopy uses computer imaging software and the technology present in CT scanning to create a three-dimensional image of the colon. This procedure is preferable to many patients, because the only other alternative is inserting an endoscope into the rectum. Obviously, this is an alternative that is exceedingly invasive.

Many people try to avoid having this procedure done because of this, but it cannot be stressed enough that it is a vital aspect of maintaining health. A virtual colonoscopy is usually done on people who are at least fifty years of age. It is at this age that the odds for polyps increases dramatically. A virtual colonoscopy is a procedure that is supposed to detect those polyps so that they can be successfully treated. Additionally, this procedure is meant to detect the early signs of cancer.

How can a person prepare for this procedure? Well, in addition to wearing comfortable clothing that is free of zippers, metal buttons, etc., the patient will have to completely clear their bowels. This can be achieved through medicine that the doctor will prescribe for the patient to take the night before the procedure.