[Guest]

How does this compare to a virtual colonoscopy and what preparation is necessary for this to be done with and IV contrast?

[Guest]

CT scan w/IV contrast for diverticular disease is often done as a semi-emergency procedure looking for the sometimes very serious complications of diverticulitis. We try to get some oral dye on-board, so we may wait an hour or two after drinking. Then, just before and during the scan of the abdomen and pelvis, intravenous dye is injected. (IV dye is not an absolute requirement, but makes for better scans.
Virtual colonoscopy is a computer generated imaging study that allows the radiologist to have a similar view as the view the GI doctor has when he/she is doing a real colonoscopy. Here we are generally looking for polyps or early cancer. The large bowel needs to be as clean as possible so there is more preparation required.
[quote] How does this compare to a virtual colonoscopy and what preparation is necessary for this to be done with and IV contrast. ... [/quote]