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CT colonography (virtual colonoscopy)

Polyps and cancers of the colon.

General health information, not a diagnosis. In an emergency, call 102. Always consult a qualified health professional.

What it shows

Polyps and cancers of the colon.

Why it is done

Bowel cancer screening or when colonoscopy is not possible.

Preparation

Bowel preparation the day before, as instructed; a small tube in the rectum gently inflates the bowel.

Radiation & safety

Typical effective dose 5 to 8 mSv, similar to about 2 to 3 years of natural background radiation (about 3 mSv a year). Tell staff if you are or might be pregnant; the benefit usually outweighs the small risk, and shielding or alternatives can be considered.

How long it takes

15 minutes. General information, not a diagnosis. Results must be interpreted by a qualified health worker.

Consult a doctor to interpret results — a single test does not make a diagnosis.

Where to get this near you

🏥 Care near you

Uses your location once to list the nearest facilities. Nothing is stored.

Common questions

Why is CT colonography (virtual colonoscopy) done?
Bowel cancer screening or when colonoscopy is not possible.

How do I prepare for CT colonography (virtual colonoscopy)?
Bowel preparation the day before, as instructed; a small tube in the rectum gently inflates the bowel.

Is CT colonography (virtual colonoscopy) safe in pregnancy?
Typical effective dose 5 to 8 mSv, similar to about 2 to 3 years of natural background radiation (about 3 mSv a year). Tell staff if you are or might be pregnant; the benefit usually outweighs the small risk, and shielding or alternatives can be considered.

SI text CC BY 4.0; RadiologyInfo.org (ACR/RSNA) and MedlinePlus linked as references only, no text copied.

Sources: SI health summary (own words); decoder imaging pack; RadiologyInfo.org and MedlinePlus as references only

Emergency — call📞 102