Virtual Colonoscopy

Screening for Colon Cancer

Benefits

Statistics indicate one in every 15 persons will be diagnosed with colon cancer. Recent research shows Virtual Colonoscopy (VC) may be an excellent test for screening colon cancer. The CT Virtual Colonoscopy does not require sedation and can be completed in 15 minutes.

Potential Candidates

We recommend anyone over the age of 50 be screened for colon cancer at least once every five to ten years. If you have a family history of colon cancer and are under age 50, you are also a likely candidate.

Considerations

While the best test for detecting small tumors of the colon is a direct colonoscopy, it poses other risks and is unavailable for mass screening in Canada due to limited resources. CT virtual colonoscopy is very similar in detecting these small tumors and is more comfortable and convenient for patients.

Potential Risks from Screening Services

Unless screening CT exams are tailored to your age and medical history; there is no evidence these tests are effective in reducing mortality. Over fifty percent of screening tests require further investigation for uncertain findings. Should a follow up surgical biopsy be required, there is the risk of bleeding, infection, collapsed lung or even death in very rare circumstances. Radiation exposure from screening CT tests is considered safe; however, it is possible to develop cancer from radiation if you have many tests over your lifetime.

With any recommended tests, a comprehensive preventive health maintenance program should always include regular physician visits and self awareness. Indicate to your physician of any new symptoms. For known symptoms or problems you may already have, diagnostic examinations may be required and should be determined by your physician (X-ray, Ultrasound, CT diagnostic or MRI).

For your convenience it is possible to conduct both diagnostic and screening exams at the same time; should you require a screening exam for one reason and a diagnostic exam for another (e.g. Screening Coronary Artery Scoring and a Diagnostic MRI of the knee for detection of a tear).

Diagnostic exams assess problems or symptoms that are already present. Screening exams assess your potential for developing certain diseases depending on your risk factors.