Virtual colonoscopy / CT Scan
Virtual colonoscopy is a reliable, non-invasive test that captures 3D images of the inside of the colon and rectum.
Virtual colonoscopy is a reliable, non-invasive test that captures 3D images of the inside of the colon and rectum.
Colonoscopy allows the radiologist to visualize the intestinal wall on a screen and to navigate precisely to specific areas. It also allows for an assessment of the abdominal structures in general. In 5-10% of cases, other significant medical conditions are seen (a cyst on the ovary or diverticulitis).
The examination requires insufflation of CO₂ (carbon dioxide) to distend the colon using a very small flexible rectal tube. Unless there are contraindications, an intravenous injection of hyoscine bromide will be performed. It usually takes 10 to 15 minutes.
Remember, early detection leads to a cure for 9 out of 10 people.
A medial prescription is required to perform this test. If you have a prescription for an ultrasound that is not mentioned, contact us
For the procedure, we will ask you :
During this time, our technologist:
Depending on the examination prescribed by your health care professional, you may be injected with a contrast agent. The list of these agents will be indicated to you when you make your appointment. If you think you may be allergic, please notify our technologist.
Virtual colonoscopy requires a complete colon cleansing and you should follow these steps to prepare
All of the following items are available at no charge at any of our clinics:
- Clear liquids only
- Clear broth
- Tea
- White bread and white pasta
- One 125 g (4 oz) serving of tuna or white poultry without skin or 2 eggs per meal
- Tomato sauce without vegetables, skins or onions
- Margarine and oil
- Liquid meal replacements that do not contain any fibre
- Fruits and vegetables
- Red meat
- Nuts
- Beans
- Dairy products
- Any type of grain or whole wheat product or cereal
- For vegan patients (who do not eat any animal products), substitute chicken, tuna or fish with tofu (not fried)
- Drink at least 250 ml (8 oz) of clear liquid (liquid meal replacements are allowed)
- In the morning, drink at least two (2) 250 ml (8 oz) glasses of clear liquid. Avoid coffee and cola.
Prepare the polyethylene glycol = PEG wash solution as follows
- Dissolve the entire contents of each 70 g bag in 1 liter (32 oz) of water
- Stir until a clear solution is obtained. Do not add any other ingredients (e.g., flavourings)
- Refrigerate the solution to improve the taste.
- Drink at least 250 mL (8 oz) of clear liquid (liquid meal replacement allowed)
- Drink half the barium mixture
- Take the 3 Dulcolax tablets orally (do not chew)
- You can apply petroleum jelly to your anus to reduce irritation from diarrhea
- By 5:00 p.m., consume only clear liquids for dinner (e.g., chicken broth, water).
- Drink remaining E-Z-Cat 4.6% barium oral solution.
At 6:00 p.m., start drinking the polyethylene glycol = PEG preparation. Follow the instructions on the package.
- Quickly drink one glass (240 ml) of the prepared solution every 10 minutes.
- Be sure to drink all of the solution prepared with the first sachet.
- If necessary, take a break of an hour or two between the two liters of polyethylene glycol = PEG preparation
- Drink 250 ml to 500 ml of juice or other clear liquid to hydrate if necessary
At 10 p.m., drink the Gastrografine bottle (30 ml), unless you are allergic to iodine.
Then drink a 250 ml glass of clear liquid.
- Do not eat or drink until the examination is over.
- If necessary, take your usual medication with a sip of water.
In the evening
Do not worry if you do not have a bowel movement within 6 hours of taking the tablets. After 6 hours of taking Dulcolax or shortly after supper, start drinking the solution. Quickly drink one glass (240 mL) of solution every 10 minutes. Be sure to drink all of the solution prepared with the first packet.
You can take a break of an hour or two between the two liters of polyethylene glycol = PEG preparation. You can drink 250 ml to 500 ml of juice or other clear liquid to hydrate yourself if you feel the need.
Mix Gastrografine with the second liter of PEG formula. REPEAT by drinking the second liter of prepared solution at a rate of 240 ml every 10 minutes.
A CT scan is an X-ray examination that gives detailed three-dimensional images of tissue, bones, organs, or blood vessels.
A CT scan can be done in our imaging centre in Esch-sur-Alzette. Please have your prescription at hand so that you can book online or by phone.
When planning your activities, keep in mind that the total duration of your visit may be 30 to 60 minutes, even though the examination itself only takes 5 to 25 minutes.
To learn more about the examination process, read our detailed section on CT examinations.
A CT scan is usually done to look for abnormalities or disorders that can affect any part of the body. There are several reasons why doctors prescribe CT scans. You can see how the examination is carried out in the detailed chapter CT examination.
"CT" stands for "computer tomography". A CT scan is an X-ray examination that produces detailed three-dimensional images.
This test requires a thorough cleaning of the colon.
See the Virtual Colonoscopy page for the necessary preparation steps.
Monday/Tuesday/Wednesday/Thursday/Friday :
9:00AM - 5:00PM
