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Virtual colonoscopy, also called colonography, is an exam that aims to visualize the intestine from images obtained through computed tomography with low radiation dose. In this way, the images obtained are processed by computer programs that generate images of the intestine in various perspectives, which allows the doctor to have a more detailed view of the intestine.
The procedure lasts an average of 15 minutes and during the examination a small probe is inserted in the initial part of the intestine, through the anus, through which a gas responsible for the dilation of the intestine passes to make all its portions visible.
Virtual colonoscopy can be useful to identify intestinal polyps smaller than 0.5 mm, diverticula or cancer, for example, and if changes are seen during the exam, it may be necessary to perform a minor surgery on the same day to remove the polyps or part of it of the intestine.
How to prepare
To perform virtual colonoscopy, it is important that the intestine is clean so that it is possible to see its interior well. Thus, on the day before the exam, it is recommended:
- Eat a specific diet, avoiding fatty and seeded foods. See what food should be like before colonoscopy;
- Take laxative and contrast indicated by the doctor the afternoon before the exam;
- Walk several times a day to increase bowel movements and help cleanse;
- Drink at least 2 L of water to help clean the intestine.
This test can be done by most patients, however, it cannot be performed by pregnant women due to radiation, despite the low frequency of radiation.
Advantages of virtual colonoscopy
The virtual colonoscopy is performed in people who cannot take anesthesia and who cannot stand the common colonoscopy because it implies the introduction of the tube in the anus, which causes some discomfort. In addition, other advantages of virtual colonoscopy are:
- It is a very safe technique, with less risk of perforation of the intestine;
- It does not cause pain, because the probe does not travel through the intestine;
- Abdominal discomfort disappears after 30 minutes because small amounts of gas are introduced into the intestine;
- It can be done on patients who cannot take anesthesia and who have irritable bowel syndrome;
- After the exam, normal daily activity can be performed, because anesthesia is not used.
In addition, it also allows diagnosing changes in the organs that involve the intestine, such as liver, pancreas, gallbladder, spleen, bladder, prostate and even uterus, as the exam is done with computed tomography devices.