CT Colonography: For Screening and Monitoring Disease

In 2008, the American Cancer Society endorsed computed tomography colonography (CTC) to virtually visualize the large intestine and help diagnose atypical pathological features of the colon. Virtual navigation through the colon provides the physician an increased opportunity to locate abnormalities without the risks associated with traditional colonoscopy. This article discusses why patients undergo CTC, how the examination is performed, and how patients should prepare. Although CTC primarily is used for the detection of polyps and cancerous tumors, the examination can benefit any patient who requires a minimally invasive alternative to a traditional colonoscopy.