Virtual Colonscopy Brochure (pdf)
Q: What is colorectal
cancer?
A: Colorectal cancer is cancer that
develops in the tissues of the colon, which is the longest
part of the large intestine and in the rectum which
is the last few inches. Most colorectal cancers are
called “adenocarcinomas,” which are cancers
that begin in the cells that make and release mucus
and other fluids.
Q: Who is most
susceptible to developing colorectal cancer?
A: Colorectal cancer is far more likely
to occur as we age. Over 90 percent of people with colorectal
cancer are diagnosed after age 50. The average age at
diagnosis is 72. (source: National Institute of Health)
Q: How serious
is colorectal cancer?
A: Colorectal cancer the nation’s
second leading cause of cancer deaths and the fourth
leading cause of death overall in both men and women.
In 2008, it is estimated that approximately 158,000
cases of colorectal cancer will be diagnosed in the
United States and that almost 50,000 people will die
of the disease. (source National Institute of Health)
Q: Why should
I have a colorectal cancer screening?
A: Colon screenings have been proven
to reduce colon cancer deaths up to 60%.
Q: What are the
symptoms of colorectal cancer?
A: Colorectal cancer symptoms are most
commonly associated with changes in bowel habits, including:
- Onset of diarrhea or constipation
- Feeling that your bowel does not empty completely
- Blood (either bright red or very dark) in your stool
- Narrow stools
- Frequent gas pains or cramps, or feeling full or
bloated more often
- Sudden weight loss not associated with diet or exercise
- Feeling very tired all the time
- Nausea or vomiting
It is important to note that other health
problems can cause these same symptoms and that usually,
these symptoms are not due to cancer. However, anyone
experiencing these symptoms should consult a physician
at once.
Q: What is the screening process
for colorectal cancer?
A: While there are several screening
options, a colonoscopy has been proven to be extremely
effective. There are two types of colonoscopies, optical
and virtual. In the optical or traditional, colonoscopy,
the physician examines inside the rectum and the entire
colon using a long, lighted tube called a colonoscope.
In a virtual colonoscopy, a tube is inserted only a
few inches inside the rectum.
 Q:
What are the other differences between a traditional
and a virtual colonoscopy?
A: A virtual colonoscopy takes less
time, is more comfortable (because the tube insertion
is only a few inches instead of the entire colon), and
requires no sedation, so you can resume your normal
activities sooner. In research performed at Boston University,
most patients reported that the virtual colonoscopy
is more comfortable than a traditional colonoscopy
Q: How do I get a virtual colonoscopy?
A: Upon a referral from your doctor,
Scottsdale Medical Imaging (SMIL) can arrange a virtual
colonoscopy appointment for you. For more information
or to schedule your appointment, please call 480.425.5000.
|
