The Benefits of A Virtual Colonoscopy

The American Cancer Society recommends getting a colonoscopy at age 50, and every five to ten years thereafter. LA Health News editor Mark Ariel underwent the procedure last month at Parkview Imaging in Santa Monica By Mark Ariel

Though it commands less attention than cancers of the breast or prostate, colorectal cancer is the leading nonsmoking-related cancer killer of Americans. It is the third most common type of cancer and the second leading cause of cancer deaths. The American Cancer Society recommends getting a colonoscopy at age 50, and every five to ten years thereafter. While all this is good to know - many folks hit their fifties and do not rush to undergo the procedure, due to the perceived discomfort of the process. I confess - I was one of those people. What can I say - the thought of having a colonoscope (a long, flexible instrument about 1/2 inch in diameter) inserted into my rectum, advancing through my large intestine - didn’t appeal to me. However - this is an extremely important health screening and - it turns out - there are other options.

Last month I underwent a “Virtual Colonoscopy” at Parkview Imaging in Santa Monica. It was quick - the entire process took under 45 minutes - and I received my results the next day. The procedure, Virtual Colonoscopy (CT Colonoscopy), is the evaluation of the colon utilizing CT. After cleansing the colon the exam is preformed by distending the colon with air and scanning the abdomen and pelvis. The images are “reconstructed” in multiple planes and interpreted by the radiologist. This procedure is faster and less invasive than conventional colonoscopy and does not require sedation. There is a preparation required for the Virtual Colonoscopy, which is the same as a standard colonoscopy. It includes a clear liquid fast 24 hours before the procedure and drinking a laxative to cleanse your colon. Plan to spend the night at home. The main advantages of a virtual colonoscopy over other procedures are as follows: » Virtual Colonoscopy does not require the insertion of a colonoscope into the entire length of the colon. Instead, a thin tube is inserted into the rectum to expand the large intestine with air.

» No sedation is needed. A patient can return to usual activities or go home after the procedure without the aid of another person.

» Virtual Colonoscopy provides clearer, more detailed images than a conventional x ray using a barium enema-sometimes called a lower GI series.

» Virtual Colonoscopy takes less time than either conventional colonoscopy or a lower

GI series.

» Virtual Colonoscopy can see inside a colon that is narrowed due to inflammation or the presence of an abnormal growth.

» The CT scan also includes visualization/evaluation of the solid organs in the abdomen and pelvis (liver, pancreas, spleen, kidneys) as well as the gall bladder and aorta. Upon arriving at Parkview Imaging for my appointment - I found the staff extremely courteous and efficient. According to Dr. Jerry Dalrymple patients’ experience at Parkview Imaging is of “paramount importance.”

“We strive to reduce anxiety and provide patients the friendliest, warmest and most stress-free environment. We know that medical procedure or test can be unsettling. Understanding this, we created the Parkview Ambassador Program with our patients needs in mind,” says office manager, Maria Murillo.

“We consider everyone who works at Parkview an Ambassador. We’re all intimately involved with the day-to-day operations and an integral part of the office. Everyone from the front desk to our physicians take pride in being Ambassadors.” “Ambassadors are here to help and comfort patients. Questions and concerns are always welcomed. We can assist with any paperwork or billing issues that may seem overwhelming. Ambassadors do their best to put patients at ease and make them feel secure. We are committed to making the patient’s visit at Parkview Imaging the best experience possible.”

For me the experience was virtually stress free - and - I’m happy to say, no polyps were found. For more info on how to schedule a virtual colonoscopy contact Parkview Imaging at 310.315.1000