Virtual Colonoscopy
Virtual Colonoscopy is a new method that allows doctors to look at the large bowel (colon) to detect polyps and cancers. Polyps are small growths in the colon that may become cancerous if they are not removed. Virtual colonoscopy is a recently developed technique that uses a CT scanner and a 3-D virtual reality computer to look inside the body without having to insert a long tube (Conventional Colonoscopy) into the colon or without having to fill the colon with liquid barium (Barium Enema). Research has shown that Virtual Colonoscopy is better able to see polyps than Barium Enema and is nearly as accurate as Conventional Colonoscopy. In addition, most patients report that the Virtual Colonoscopy technique is more comfortable than either the Barium enema or Conventional Colonoscopy.

Scan
We introduce air into the colon with a small enema tip, first we will scan you on your back then on your stomach. The scan will take about 15 minutes. Please wear comfortable clothing free of excessive metal such as snaps, belt buckles etc.

CT Colonoscopy Preparation - Patient Instructions
In preparation for your CT Colonoscopy procedure you need to follow the following instructions plus the ones listed in more detail on the packet.

Product Use

The quality of your CT Colonoscopy examination is dependent in large on your bowel preparation to assure the best possible outcome, this preparation should be taken exactly as directed. Do not make any substitutions or changes without prior consultation with your physician. In addition to the instructions contained herein, you should also read all product information literature accompanying each product. Ask your physician or call us if you have any questions.

It is essential that you follow all the instructions in the kit. Stray fecal matter or fluid may make it difficult to identify any polyps. If the bowel is not sufficiently clean, your exam will need to be rescheduled.

Two Days Prior to Your Test:
Start a low residue diet. Start with breakfast 48 hours prior to your exam.

The low-residue diet consists of the following:

Beverages - clear liquids (water, coffee, tea, broth, orange or grape punch (not juice), clear JELL-O®, 7-Up®)
Strained fruit juices (orange, apple, grape)
Cereal (Rice Krispies®, Farina, Cream of Wheat®)
Eggs (any style)
Cottage Cheese (dry, not creamed)
Meat (canned baby meats, baked skinless fish, finely chopped canned tuna)
Macaroni, Spaghetti, Noodles, Rice
Oil, Butter or Margarine
Sweets & Sugars (plain gelatin desserts without added ingredients, moderate amounts of sugar or strained honey)
Seasonings (moderate amounts)

NO breads
NO fruits or vegatables
NO milk or milk products
NO "artificial" milk products
NO alcoholic beverages

One Day Prior to Your Test:
DO NOT USE MILK, CREAM, OR NON-DAIRY CREAMER. You may have Clear liquids anytime thru out the day until midnight. The day of the test no food or liquids prior to the test

8:00AM: FILL HALFLYTLEY BOTTLE WITH LUKE WARM DRINKING WATER. ADD FLAVOR PACK OF CHOICE. SHAKE AND REFRIGERATE.

Breakfast: Clear soup (any broth) strained fruit juice without pulp that is clear. Flavored gelatin (do not add extra ingredients), soft drinks, black coffee, and plain tea.
1 bottle of Tagitol

Noon: Clear soup (any broth) strained fruit juices without pulp, that is clear, flavored gelatin (do not add extra ingredients), soft drinks, black coffee, and plain tea.

1 bottle of Tagitol

Dinner (5:00 pm): Clear soup (any broth) strained fruit juices without pulp, that is clear, flavored gelatin (do not add extra ingredients), soft drinks, black coffee and plain tea.

1 bottle of Tagitol

5:00 pm: Take the 2 bisacodyl tablets with water. Do not crush or crew.

8:00 pm: Start drinking the HALFLYTELY one 8 OZ CUP EVERY 10-15 MIN (ABOUT 8 CUPS) DRINK QUICKLY RATHER THAT A LITTLE AT A TIME.

Nothing after midnight until the test is complete.

THE DAY OF YOUR TEST: DO NOT EAT OR DRINK ANYTHING. Please disregard the instructions on our order form to drink 1.5 quarts of water an hour before your exam. You need to follow the HALFLYTLEY prep. Any questions please call 505-5070.

Please notify your doctor's office before scheduling if: