Virtual Colonoscopy

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When people turn 50 or when they're younger and have a family history of Colon Cancer, the recommendation is that they have a Colonoscopy.  It's typically not high on anyone's list of favorite things that they just can't wait to try. Along with getting an invitation to join AARP, this marks another age related rite of passage in a person's life that doesn't carry the same kind of excited anticipation as let's say, getting a driver's license did when we were younger.

It's the whole idea of a small tube with a camera attached being placed into areas that most of us would rather not even think about, let alone make an appointment for.

It's the Clean Out

When helpful friends are trying their best to reassure you about colonoscopies, they inevitably say something really compelling about how the procedure isn't bad, because the drugs they give you to relax are very pleasant, it's the Clean Out that's the worst part.

I have a friend who needed a colonoscopy for a serious bowel problem, who had so much trouble drinking her Clean Out solution, that I had to go over and drink a few sips to show her it wasn't so bad.  I know, I know, I'm an enabler.  She's a nurse too, so you'd think she'd chug it down, but that's another story.

Virtual Colonoscopy the Wave of the Future

This is perfect timing.  So instead of having a large tube with a miniature camera inserted, people who are having virtual colonoscopies, will have an even smaller tube inserted that release a tiny bit of air into the intestines. Then using a combination of CAT scans or MRI while the person lies on their back and then on their tummy, a 3-D image is generated to look for polyps, diverticulosis and colon cancer. 

Drawbacks

You still have to do the Clean Out.  Sorry, haven't figured that one out yet.  And if there is something seen, like a polyp, then a regular (conventional) colonoscopy must be used to remove it.

What to do

I'm going to find a GI (Gastroenterologist) who does this in my area and I'll let you know how it goes. Anyone want to come over and drink some of the Clean Out mix with me?