Why you should have a screening Virtual Colonoscopy is a far less invasive alternative The table will move slowly through the machine for to conventional endoscopic colonoscopy. Using state- the CT exam. You will hear slight buzzing, clicking and of-the-art imaging, radiologists are able to detect whirling sounds as the machine captures the images. polyps without subjecting you to the risks, pain and A CT scan is taken while you lie on your back, and once inconvenience associated with conventional again on your stomach. This allows any fluid in the colonoscopy. colon to move from one side to the other, creating the best possible pictures of the entire colon. Virtual Colonoscopy is just as accurate as conventional colonoscopy for the detection of polyps 10 mm and For the best quality images, you need to be as still as larger and can identify polyps as small as 3 to 4 mm. possible during the exam. You may be asked to hold your breath for approximately 20 seconds while the How you should prepare images are acquired. Once the scan is done the tube is gently removed. • Arrive 15 minutes early to complete registration. • Bring your insurance card and a valid photo ID. A virtual colonoscopy typically lasts less than 20 minutes. • Let us know about any of the following: What is Virtual Colonoscopy? – Allergies – Asthma – Kidney problems Virtual Colonoscopy is a CT technique used in detecting – Diabetes cancer and polyps in the colon (large intestine). High- – Pregnancy - known or possible resolution, three-dimensional images of the colon are – Recent chemotherapy (within 30 days) obtained, allowing the radiologist to evaluate the entire • Two days prior to your exam you will begin the length of the colon. The radiologist also evaluates the preparation for the exam. The purpose of the surrounding organs for abnormalities. preparation is to cleanse your colon to optimize detection of polyps. The instructions are located in the colonoscopy prep kit. If you did not receive Who should have a Virtual Colonoscopy this kit from your healthcare provider, you may get one screening? from the Suburban Imaging office where your exam Virtual Colonoscopy screening is not appropriate for is scheduled. The kit should be obtained at least 3 days everyone, and should be discussed with your primary prior to your exam. healthcare provider. Men and women are encouraged • Same day exams may be scheduled after a failed to have a Virtual Colonoscopy screening if they meet the traditional colonoscopy. A prep kit will be given to screening criteria. you by your referring physician and the exam will be Screening Criteria performed 2 hours following the prep. In this case, the • 5o years of age or older exam will be a Diagnostic Virtual Colonoscopy and will • Individuals who are at average or moderate risk* go towards your insurance deductible. for developing colon cancer * Moderate risk individuals are those with a first-degree relative who have had colon cancer before age 60 or multiple What happens during your exam first-degree relatives who were diagnosed at any age. You will be asked to lie on a cushioned, moveable table, and positioned comfortably with pillows to maintain the proper position for the exam. A small, flexible rubber tube will be placed in your rectum to allow carbon dioxide to inflate the colon. The purpose of the carbon dioxide is to distend the colon to eliminate folds and wrinkles which may obscure the physician’s view. www.suburbanimaging.com VIRTUAL COLONOSCOPY

Is the exam covered by insurance? Medica, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Minnesota and Cigna insurance cover this service every 5 years. All other insurances can vary on coverage therefore, we what you should know recommend you check with your insurance company on their coverage of this service. Virtual Colonoscopy & how to prepare screening CPT code is 74263. Thank you for choosing Suburban Imaging.

Our team of subspecialty-trained radiologists, qualified imaging technologists and friendly professional staff come together to provide you with compassionate care. Virtual Colonoscopy Your comfort is our main concern.

We are conveniently located throughout the Twin Cities area to provide easy access for your imaging needs: Blaine • Burnsville • Coon Rapids • Maple Grove Northwest • Southdale • The Breast Center

We offer the following services: After your exam MRI • CT • PET/CT • Ultrasound Your images will be interpreted by a board-certified Spinal & Joint Injections • Nuclear Medicine radiologist specializing in abdominal imaging. The findings will be sent to your healthcare provider. Your Vascular Center • X-ray • Bone Density healthcare provider will contact you to discuss the Mammography • Breast Diagnostic Services results.

Southdale: 952.405.2777 Southdale Medical Center your scheduled appointment 6545 France Ave. S., Suite 125 | Edina, MN 55435 Date:______Time:______

Special instructions: ______

Location: q Southdale scheduling line: 952.893.0000

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