Colon cancer is the second most common cause

of cancer-related deaths in the United States.

If discovered in the early stage, colon cancer has a high probability of cure.

Men and women should consider virtual colonoscopy screening beginning at age 40-50.

3D Virtual Colonoscopy is a recently developed technique that uses a CT scanner and virtual reality computer software to view the inside of the colon.

• Faster and less invasive than conventional methods
• Does not require sedation
• No use of a conventional scope into the colon
• No barium enema
• Typical procedure lasts only fifteen minutes
• Better able to see polyps than barium enema
• Nearly as accurate as conventional invasive colonoscopy
• 90% success rate for detection of all cancers and polyps over 10mm in size 
    

The process begins with a high-speed CT scan of the abdomen, the patient's colon having been gently inflated with air to improve resolution. Later the CT image is reconstructed using sophisticated software into a digital model of the colon which can be moved, rotated, and reviewed as many times as needed by the physician.

Preparing for a Virtual Colonoscopy is easy.
For details of the slightly modified diet and other preparations necessary
Click Here.

Click here to view a CT Virtual Colonoscopy "Fly Through"

*Patients who have been previously diagnosed with polyps or colon cancer should have a conventional colonoscopy. If that study is anatomically difficult or impossible to perform, a Virtual Colonoscopy may be a good alternative to a conventional colonoscopy.

Insurance Coverage
Generally insurance providers do not cover examinations for screening purposes. However if an examination is medically necessary, insurance will typically cover the cost of this procedure. Please check with your insurance provider.

To Schedule Your Exam
Call UT Southwestern Radiology at 214.645.XRAY (9729).