Advantages and disadvantages

Advantages

• It is a minimally invasive procedure
• It has a markedly lower risk of perforating the colon than conventional colonoscopy
• You can be spared from having to undergo a full colonoscopy
• It uses a short flexible rectal tube rather than a larger less flexible tube to view the bowel walls
• It is an excellent alternative for patients who have clinical factors that increase the risk of complications from colonoscopy (such as treatment with blood thinners or severe breathing problems)
• It is helpful when colonoscopy cannot be completed because the bowel is narrowed or obstructed for any reason, such as by a large tumor
• It provides clearer and more detailed images than a conventional barium enema x-ray examination
• You will not need sedation
• It has a more rapid exam time (10-20 minutes)
• It has reduced risk of complications
• It has the ability to examine your entire colon
• Its virtual ‘CT Scope” scan be turned around to look behind a fold of the large bowel

Disadvantages

• Full preparation is still needed
• It cannot remove polyps during testing
• Colonoscopy will be needed if results are abnormal
• There is a small risk of perforation the colon with air or CO²
• If IV contrast is given, some individuals may have an allergic reaction
• This test is not suitable for pregnant patients because of the use of radiation