Virtual Colonoscopy

Virtual colonoscopy is an alternative to a traditional colonoscopy which uses a scope that is inserted into your colon. 

There are both benefits and limitations of a virtual colonoscopy when compared to a traditional colonoscopy.  

The advantages of a virtual colonoscopy are the following:

• Lower risk of perforating (poking a hole into) the colon
• Lower risk of complications, especially for those with health conditions such as breathing problems or those that require blood thinners
• Can be used with a narrowed or obstructed colon
• Clearer and more detailed images
• More comfortable procedure
• Sedation or anesthesia is not required
• Faster procedure, usually between 10 to 20 minutes
• Can examine your entire colon, even behind folds 

The disadvantages of a virtual colonoscopy are the following:

• Still requires bowel preparation
• Cannot remove polyps during the test
• May still require a traditional colonoscopy if results are abnormal
• Small risk of perforating the colon with air
• Risk of allergic reaction to IV contrast, if given
• Not suitable during pregnancy because of the use of radiation 

What to expect

Before your appointment

One week before your appointment, you will need to pick up your preparation kit from the CT bookings area of the hospital. Someone else can pick the kit up for you, as well.

The kit will include the ingredients for your bowel preparation and two types of oral contrast agents called barium and telebrix that will help your colon show up better in the X-ray.

It is important that you follow the specific directions for bowel preparation in your appointment letter.  

Please continue to take your regular medication unless a health-care professional has asked you to stop.

Please let us know if you are usually constipated or if you have significant health conditions such as heart disease, kidney disease or diabetes. If you have any question or concerns at all, you can contact us at 416-586-4800 ext. 4418.

Learn more about the colonoscopy prep that is required before all kinds of colonoscopies.

At your appointment

Please arrive at the hospital for your virtual colonoscopy 20 before your scheduled appointment. Your bowels should be completely cleansed by this point.

The average procedure takes approximately 30 minutes and consists of the following:

• You will be asked to lie down on your back on the CT scanner
• We insert a short rectal catheter that releases carbon dioxide to help open your bowels
• We may inject a muscle relaxant to avoid bowel spasms
• You will be asked to change positions to distribute the gas throughout your bowel
• CT images of your tummy area will be taken
• The rectal catheter is removed

After your appointment

You can continue with your normal daily routine after the procedure and eat and drink normally.

Your results will be sent to your referring physician who will discuss them with you.

If we find an abnormality, we may offer you a same-day traditional colonoscopy while your bowels are still clean. In these cases, we ask you not to eat until after your colonoscopy.

It is normal for the oral contrast agent, barium, to cause your stools to look chalky or white for a few weeks after your virtual colonoscopy. 

What to bring

• Your health (OHIP) card
• A list of your current medication
• A list of questions you want to ask 

How to access our services

You need a referral from a health-care provider to be seen at our clinic. Visit our referral criteria for more information.