Virtual Colonoscopy

Virtual Colonoscopy is part of our InnoVision Early Detection Program. There’s comfort that comes with knowing how your body is functioning before symptoms appear - particularly if you might be at risk. CDI provides a greater degree of knowledge by pairing the insight of our leading subspecialized radiologists with advanced colon scanning technology. These scans provide you and your doctor with a good, minimally invasive perspective on your colorectal health.

A Virtual Colonoscopy or Colon Scan evaluates your colon for polyps and early colon cancer. Performed using a CT scanner (also known as a “CAT” scanner), the virtual colonoscopy allows us to look for areas that may be unseen with other diagnostic techniques. The scan usually takes only 20 minutes.

Exam preparation

A CDI representative will call you prior to your appointment to provide specific instructions, and review health and insurance information.
Notify a member of CDI’s staff if you are nursing or if there is a chance you could be pregnant.
Bring prior x-rays or scans with you to your exam, if instructed.
Please arrive 15 minutes early to verify your registration.

Who should have a virtual colonoscopy?
Virtual colonoscopy may be an important screening test for people over 50 years of age, or those who have a family history of colorectal cancer (specifically parents or siblings). It is also appropriate for those who refuse or are unable to undergo traditional colonoscopy. If you are already experiencing symptoms, you may not be a candidate for this exam. Please talk to your physician about immediate care options.

During the exam – what to expect

You will receive a preparation for cleansing your colon the day before your exam.
At the time of the scan, carbon dioxide will be gently introduced into your colon using a small rectal tube; it is necessary to do this in order to detect small polyps.
You lie on your stomach on a cushioned table, and once comfortably positioned, the tabletop will move through a gantry (shaped like a big donut), which houses the x-ray tube and a set of detectors of the CT scanner that capture images. A second set of images will be captured as you lie on your back.

After the exam – what to expect

Within a few days following your exam, the subspecialty radiologist who interprets your scan will contact your doctor to go over your results.
If your report warrants physician follow up, your physician will be able to use the information to determine a health strategy that is right for you.

Will my insurance cover this exam?
Please check with your insurance plans customer service department. If you are at risk and referred by a physician, your insurance plan may reimburse the exam, especially if it is a diagnostic rather than screening test. Without a referral, we require full payment at the time of the exam.

If you have additional questions about your appointment or our services, check out our Frequently Asked Questions or contact your local CDI center.